Ants
What are ants?
Two common species in our area are Argentine ants and carpenter ants. Argentine ants are an invasive species. They are dark brown to black and about 1/16 to 1/4 of an inch long. Carpenter ants are usually black, red, or a combination of the two and 1/2 to 5/8 of an inch long.
Are ants dangerous?
Because ants are social insects, they infest in large numbers, which intensifies the problems they cause. Ant colonies consist of hundreds of thousands of individuals. They use pheromones to communicate when they find food or are in danger, among other reasons.
As mentioned above, Argentine ants are invasive, which means they displace other species. Because they feed on honeydew, they protect the crop-destroying aphids that produce the sweet liquid; however, like carpenter ants, Argentine ants don’t spread diseases, but they can cause food contamination.
Another issue caused by ants, specifically carpenter ants, is their wood destruction. This species builds its nest inside wood by tunneling and creating galleries, damaging a home’s structure.
Why do I have an ant problem?
Ants, like other pests, become problems in homes when there are adequate food sources. Ants will eat just about anything from crumbs to garbage and more. Carpenter ants are attracted to water-damaged and rotting wood.
No matter what species you are dealing with, they can squeeze in through tiny cracks in the foundation and along the roofline, gaps around windows and doors, and damaged screens.
Where will I find ants?
You can find ants in the typical pest locations such as kitchens, bathrooms, and basements. Not only can they find food in these areas, but these are also where moisture tends to build up. They can create nests under floorboards and between walls. Carpenter ants are usually in areas with water damage, including doorframes, near sinks, and crawl spaces.
How do I get rid of ants?
If you are dealing with ants on your San Mateo property, you should contact us at Pacific Pest Management. We offer home pest control services and commercial pest management to assist with any ant problems you have.
Before we implement any treatments, we will inspect your entire property for signs of pests. Once we identify the species you are dealing with, we will implement the necessary treatments to remove them. To keep ants away, we offer our services monthly or bimonthly.
How can I prevent ants in the future?
Along with ongoing pest control services in San Mateo, you can help decrease the chances of another ant infestation by removing food sources and entry points. This step should include keeping your kitchen and other eating areas clear of food debris and open food packaging, maintaining your yard, and sealing cracks and filling in holes in the exterior walls of your home. Also, make sure to replace any water-damaged wood to keep carpenter ants and other wood-destroying pests away.
Helpful Articles
How To Get Rid Of Ants In Your San Mateo Home & Keep Them Out
What It Takes To Get Rid Of An Ant Infestation In Your San Mateo Home