Carpenter Ant
Actual size: up to 0.4 in.
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Amazing Ants
In the United States, there are approximately 700 different ant species. Twenty-five
of these species are considered to be household pests. Ants are particularly troublesome
when they come indoors and get into foods. Once a few ants come indoors, hundreds
more can quickly follow.
Ants do serve an important role in the ecosystem. But, as their colonies grow and
multiply, treatment may be necessary.
Rid Your Home of Ants
For virtually every indoor ant problem, eliminating food, water, and other things
that attract ants is key. The following tips will help you rid your home of ants:
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Clean up food crumbs and beverage spills. A tiny crumb is enough to attract dozens
of ants into your home.
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Keep packaged foods in tightly closed containers.
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Store vegetable oils and shortenings in the refrigerator.
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Store food carefully. Ants can travel down the threads of a screw-top jar. They
can easily enter the jar that does not have a rubber gasket or liner.
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Dry out bathtubs and sinks after use.
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Rinse glass, metal, plastic, and paper food containers before throwing them in the
garbage or recycling bins.
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Clean all kitchen surfaces, and sweep and vacuum often.
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If you have pets, make sure to clean up any pet food that may have spilled from
your pet's food dish.
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Property maintenance is another important step in controlling an ant problem—especially
with severe ant infestations. For example, caulking windows, making sure your windows
are fitting tight, and repairing foundation cracks can help. Tackling environments
that make the home and property more inviting to ants is a difficult chore. One
can never make a property completely ant-proof—nor would you want to try!
If you would like more information or tips for removing ants from your home, please
contact our Consumer Relationship Center.
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