Ants are a common type of pest often encountered at cookouts, picnics, and other outdoor activities where food exists. Ants have a three-segment body, six legs, and antennae. Based on their small size, ants are among the strongest insects in existence.
Ants are social creatures that often form large colonies with members belonging to categories or castes based on their roles as workers, queens, and more. What does a queen ant look like generally? Although young queen ants might have wings, they usually shed them once they begin mating. In most species, the queen ant appears noticeably larger compared to other colony members. Some ant species have colonies containing multiple queens.
Beginning as an egg, ants develop through larval and pupae stages before finally reaching adulthood. The eggs are often not visible to the naked eye.
Have ants invaded your home? An experienced Jacksonville pest control professional understands what gets rid of ants and what keeps ants away from your property.
The Types Of Ants That Invade Jacksonville Homes
A variety of ant species in Jacksonville exist in yard areas in residential neighborhoods but primarily remain in their natural outdoor setting; however, several types will navigate their way indoors, such as the following:
- Carpenter ants: A large ant species with powerful mandibles (mouthparts) used for chewing through wood structures. Unlike termites that actually consume wood, carpenter ants erode the material to form nests.
- Pharaoh ants: Because of their tiny size, pharaoh ants will move indoors through small openings. These pests often infest hospitals, large apartment complexes, and other structures and are known for forming multiple colonies.
- Ghost ants: Measuring only about 1/16 of an inch long, ghost ants often remain “invisible” to the naked eye. In the U.S., they exist primarily in Florida, Hawaii, and other warm climates.
- Fire ants: Florida is home to native and imported species of fire ants, both of which can deliver a painful sting when feeling threatened. Fire ants create ground nests, which they will aggressively defend.
- Acrobat ants: Primarily a nuisance pest, acrobat ants are known for elevating their abdomen above their head.
- Argentine ants: A highly invasive species, Argentine ants will drive other ant species away from areas. They are a mid-sized species that appears in shades of brown.
Regardless of the species, ants communicate using pheromone chemicals that are detectable by others in their colony; therefore, small ant intrusions may quickly become overwhelming infestations.
Why Ants Can Be So Problematic For Homeowners
One of the reasons why ant prevention proves challenging is that these creatures will slip through tiny openings and reach indoor areas.
Common points of entry include cracks in exterior walls, gaps around entry doors, crevices that develop near the bases of a structure, or torn window screens.
What attracts ants indoors? Certain members of ant colonies spend the majority of their time out searching for sources of food.
While the majority of ant species are merely nuisance pests, they are known carriers of salmonellosis, E.coli infection, and several other health-related concerns.
Why DIY Ant Control Usually Isn't Enough
Local home improvement stores and online retailers promote a host of do-it-yourself home treatment options for controlling ants. Some of these options include liquid-filled baiting stations, granular formulas, repellants, and others that are often exaggeratedly touted as “easy-to-use and total solutions” for expelling ants. In many instances, these products prove ineffective against larger ant infestations.
The Most Efficient Way To Get Rid Of An Ant Infestation
How do you get rid of ants? Consider contacting a local pest control company regarding a property inspection. As a leading provider of indoor and outdoor ant control services, Mission Pest Solutions delivers positive outcomes for customers struggling with these undesirable insects in the Jacksonville area. Contact our team today for assistance.