Ant Identification & Prevention
What are ants?
Ants are unique insects that have many interesting facts associated with them:
- In relation to their size, ants are among the strongest creatures on the planet.
- Ants don't have ears. They "hear" through vibrations in the ground.
- Ants are on every continent except Antarctica.
- Only reproductive members of the colony have wings.
- Ants can maintain multiple nesting sites.
- They are omnivores and can eat many of the same foods we do.
Physical features of ants include three defined body segments, chewing mouthparts, short antennae, six legs, and two stomachs; one to hold food for themselves and one to carry food back to the nest!
Are ants dangerous?
Some ants can pose significant dangers. Dangerous ants are capable of spreading pathogens, causing structural damage, or biting and stinging people.
The good news is that when it comes to ants, most are more of a nuisance than a danger. While all ants will contaminate food surfaces and be challenging to eliminate, they aren't dangerous.
Whether considered dangerous or just annoying, ants shouldn't be allowed to move to and from our properties as they please. Ants belong outdoors, away from our homes and businesses.
Why do I have an ant problem?
Most ants in Florida enjoy living and nesting outside because of our warm temperatures. Most ants wander into our homes because food and moisture are attracting them.
Since ants live together in such large colonies, feeding every member every day is a big job. Ants move to and from their nests daily, searching for food. The more food sources available, the more ants you will have on your property.
Where will I find ants?
Many places in our Florida yards can provide ants with suitable nesting spots; a fallen tree, a woodpile, the soil in your yard, under rocks, or landscaping ties.
As ants move around your yard searching for food, they often wind up in our homes, moving through cracks in the foundation, gaps under doors, or through vents or spaces around utilities.
Sometimes ants just move in and out of a house each day to gather food, but other times they will decrease their commute time by creating an indoor nest close to their new food source. Wall voids, spaces under floors, gaps behind cabinets, and attics are places ants build nests inside homes and other structures.
How can I prevent ants in the future?
Ants are something that we all will have to deal with at some point. The best way to keep them from taking over your property is with the help of a professional and by implementing regular home or commercial pest control services.
For the best ant control in the Jacksonville area, reach out to us at Mission Pest Solutions. Our professionals are friendly and experienced and will provide you with premier home pest control services and exceptional customer service.
Learn more about ant control in Florida by reaching out to us at Mission Pest Solutions today!
How do I get rid of ants?
Use the following easy to execute tips to help stop ants from taking over your Florida property.
- Keep lids on trash cans and recycling bins.
- Maintain a clean kitchen.
- Regularly vacuum your home and wipe down counters to remove crumbs and food odors that attract ants.
- Don't leave pet food sitting out for long periods inside or outside your home.
- Repair damage to the exterior of your home; replace torn screens, worn weatherstripping, and missing door sweeps.
Learn more about our Jacksonville-area pest solutions by giving us a call today.