Say no pest

Category: Ants

  • California Argentine Ants: Friend or Foe?

    California Argentine Ants: Friend or Foe?

    California argentine ants originally come from South America. These ants have become an issue for residents not only in the state but in the entire United States as well. They are small and dark-brown and their ability to survive in different habitats makes them one of the most invasive species of the region.

    Do they Sting?

    People often ask whether ants of the species ‘california Argentine ants’ sting or not!

    These are non-stinging ants. Hence, they are different from other ant species. They might attempt to bite you if you bother them, but their bites rarely cause a reaction.

    The size of their mandibles is so small that even the most sensitive human skin will not get damaged, so do not expect any painful stings from the California Argentine Ants.

    Their aggressive nature is directed only at other insects, so you hardly ever need to worry about them biting.

    Tips to Argentine Ant Control

    These ants are like cockroaches in their nature, they are extremely difficult to get rid of and they reproduce in a quickly. Below are the tips to prevent argentine ants:

    1. Seal Entry Points: Seal all cracks, gaps, and places that can be around the windows, doors, etc. This is not only a safe way to keep your home warm and save energy but also to stop the invasion of the insects into your house.
    2. Eliminate Food Sources:
    • Put food into containers that cannot be penetrated by air and clean any spills on the spot.
    • Regularly cleaning of the countertops, mopping the floor, and emptying the trash can, will help to remove any smell that may be there to attract the california argentine ants.

    3. Remove Water Sources: Make sure that there is good drainage around your house. These  ants find moisture and water to invade your house.

    Use Ant Baits: Set ant baits along the ant trails. Baits work better than sprays!

    4. Avoid Spraying Trails: Use the baits as well as non-repellent insecticides for long-term results.

    5. Maintain Cleanliness: Dispose off yard debris and the maintain cleanliness of the yard and give no place for ants to hide.

    6. Professional Help: It would be more effective to call a professional pest control who knows well about this issue.

    Stick to these steps and you will be able to significantly contribute to your ant control and your home will remain a safe place for you and your family.

    Fire Ants vs Argentine Ants

    It is very important to be knowledgeable of the features in fire ants vs argentine ants when managing pests. They are quite different from each other in aspects of the behavior and hazardousness to humans.

    • Appearance: California argentine ants are small. Fire ants are bigger. But Both of them are red-brown in color.
    • Stings: Fire ants sting and bite ruthlessly, due to this they are considered more aggressive. On the other hand, California argentine ants do not sting and they barely bite.
    • Habitat: Argentine ants prefer damp areas. Fire ants prefer bright unshaded places and construct big mounds in lawns and fields.
    • Colony: Argentine ant colony includes several queens and thus they can reproduce very fast. Fire ants generally have a single queen or few queen colonies, but they are more aggressive and are not very friendly with their neighbors.
    • Diet: California argentine ants prefer sweet food, however, fire ants have an omnivorous diet and they eat both plants and animals.

    When it comes to fire ants vs argentine ants, homeowners must keep in mind that the california argentine ants are only a nuisance, but fire ants are more dangerous to health because of their painful stings.

    Conclusion

    Although Argentine Ants do not sting, but their existence creates problem hence there is a need for the control of the argentine ants. You can protect your home and family from these invasive pests by understanding these pests and implementing the most effective control methods.

  • Army Ant Bites Are No Joke: Here’s How to Treat Them

    Army Ant Bites Are No Joke: Here’s How to Treat Them

    Army ants are infamous for their never-ending eating, and if you happen to bother them, they can bite you many times. After facing army ant bites, people usually look for the most suitable remedies to get rid of them. Therefore, they need to be updated with information about the symptoms of the bite and be able to act immediately.

    Army Ant Size

    There is a big difference between the ant and the queen depending on which part of the colony the individual ant performs his/her duties. Therefore there is variance in their sizes after class and specialization. Most worker ants are roughly 0.25 inch in size while major army ants that are also called soldiers can be 0.5 inch long at the most. The army ant size is quite amazing, especially if taking into account they have great jaws and strong muscles. The colors can vary from dark brown or black bodies to orange heads and legs. Better knowledge about the pest, i.e., knowing the difficulty of the pest, employing the proper control measures for eradicating them. This will only be done after you understand the army ant size. The queen who is the biggest can also change her size to be able to relocate the colony.

    How Painful Are Army Ant Bites?

    • Most individuals that are bitten by these ants and army ant bites cause them severe discomfort.
    • How painful are army ant bites is a question that depends on the the pain experienced and the symptoms of swelling and itching. If a person was bitten by many ants at a single time, the pain caused by the bites of the army ants can be very difficult to bear.
    • Different people react differently, some end up with allergic symptoms. This not only increase the discomfort but also require that they go to the doctor immediately for treatment.
    • In extremely rare situations, the swelling caused by the bites of the army ants can be still there after a number of days. Due to this, the part may become so sensitive that even a small movement is difficult.  But most people say that the pain is quite high and unforgettable.

    Tips for Army Ant Bites Treatment

    • Do not forget that immediate attention is necessary.
    • First, clean the bitten area with soap and water. You can get rid of any dirt and it reduces the chance of infection.
    • An ice massage makes it possible to diminish the swelling and numb the affected area thus, getting a fast relief from the bites of the army ants.
    • You should not scratch the bite as in doing so it may become infected.
    • For those who wonder how painful are army ant bites, it is important to know that apart from the mentioned remedies, there are a few more that can also reduce the irritation.
    • Aloe vera.
    • Baking soda paste.
    • or diluted tea tree oil.
    • If you see that there is excessive swelling, presence of an infection, or if you experience allergic symptoms such as breathlessness or swelling of the face, do seek medical help immediately.
    • Usually, managing the army ant bites at home is okay, but be cautious if the symptoms get worse. You may be able to treat arm ant bites at your place. Being careful with the measures is important.

    Conclusion

    Army ant bites, aggressive behavior and the fact that they can give you very painful bites make it necessary to be aware of army ant size, understand how painful are their bites, and have ready treatments that actually work. Be aware, be ready, and keep safety as the first priority while dealing with these powerful pests with SayNoPest.

  • Carpenter Ants vs Black Ants? Identify the Culprit in Your House

    Carpenter Ants vs Black Ants? Identify the Culprit in Your House

    One thing is certain, ants are everywhere you go but not all ants are the same. The two most common types that you will find in your house are carpenter ants vs black ants. At first glance, they may look alike but the knowing the different features of carpenter ants and black ants is important. Especially for the safety of your home and the safety of your environment. In this article both these ants are defined, so that you can take action before this becomes a real danger.

    How Do Carpenter Ants vs Black Ants Look?

    Spotting the difference between starts with size. Carpenter ants vs black ants-

    • Carpenter ants are the ant royalty when it comes to size. The black ants are generally 1/16 to 1/8 of an inch long in size that makes them twice smaller than the biggest of the carpenter ants. Carpenter Ants are the ones that are 1/16 to 1/8 inch long.
    • When you see a larger than usual ant in your house, the probability of it being a carpenter ant is high.
    • Color is another distinguishing feature and if you know it, it is very easy to identify the type of ants even from a distance. Carpenter ants have a black, red, brown, or very dark maroon, and some may have a combination of these colors. Black ants may be shining black or very, very dark brown.
    • Carpenter ants have a heart-shaped head, and a single “waist” (petiole) segment that connects their thorax to their abdomen. They also have bent antennae.
    • Black ants are more slender, have a rounded body having two petiole segments. Besides, their head is small and round, and the antennae are almost not visible. Moreover, they are longer and thinner than those of carpenter ants.

    Behavior Differentiation

    Behavior is seen as the decisive factor in the carpenter ants vs black ants riddle. Carpenter ants, for the most part, are nocturnal. They find food during the night, and they hide from predators all day. They are not as likely to lay down visible trails but you could witness them being attracted to a food source or encountering them exit from wall cracks. If they face any disruption, they can become highly dangerous and will fight fiercely to protect their colonies.

    Unlike carpenter ants, black ants are day-to-day ants and their most obvious feature is the formation of trails between the nest and the food source. Being social animals, they are the basic collective worker that performs their queen’s care and build the colony. However, they mostly do not bite or are not aggressive.

    Carpenter vs Black Ant Habitats

    Location is a significant matter of the carpenter ants vs black ants conversation!

    Carpenter Ants- Wet and decayed are the two words that would best describe the wood that carpenter ants love. They are outdoor species and their nests are generally found in decaying wood like:

    1. Rotting logs
    2. Stumps
    3. Dead braches
    4. Inside of hollow trees.

    When infiltrating human dwellings, they usually hang out in wet wooden parts (basements, attics, wall voids, or even water-leaking spots in the house). Besides, they are very good at digging their way and going further carrying the dropped-off wooden particles.

    The carpenter ant has primary and satellite colonies. The queen and its attendants, are the usual inhabitants of the main colony, which is mostly located in the fresh air of nature. The other colony, on the other hand, could be anywhere, most likely within the wood of your home, and it is a part of the satellite colonies.

    Black Ants- Black ants prefer hanging out outdoors in the soil, below stones or inside garden beds. They build tiny mounds and are usually found in unused paving stones or in piles of things.

    This social insect may live in the walls, under the floors, or behind the baseboards, and the food sources is a key factor, yet they still do not cause cavities in wood. The societies of the black ants are often very small, and they are easy to locate due to the trail they leave behind.

    To Sum Up-

    Knowing all about Carpenter ants vs black ants goes beyond being curious – it is about protecting your house and your health. Carpenter ants are the bigger, more destructive type and they like to build their nests in wet, rotting wood. This often leads to significant destruction of the building structure. On the other hand, black ants will look for their own food, and thus, they don’t pose any danger by breaking the walls or floors.

    When you see the big ones, especially in wood or damp places, the best thing to do is to act promptly. Watch for such symptoms as frass, wood that sounds empty, or night activity. As for the small, uniform, black ants that run to your pantry, your effort should be on food and entry points sealing.

    Conclusion

    Whether it’s one kind or the other that turns up, early recognition and directed treatment are the solutions. The health-conscious homeowners, who keep the space neat and dry and their homes secure, are the ones that will not easily be affected by pests. Furthermore, call an expert if you are uncertain, for your peace of mind, as well as your property’s integrity, are invaluable. Remember, in the fight of carpenter ants vs black ants, knowledge is your ultimate weapon!

  • Fire Ants vs Red Ants: Spot the Threat Early

    Fire Ants vs Red Ants: Spot the Threat Early

    What if, one day, you spot little red insects in your yard? Your mind goes dizzy with questions like what are these insects? Are they deadly fire ants, or are they just harmless red ants? Almost every American homeowner is in a dilemma because of this question. Knowing the major differences of fire ants vs red ants can be an assurance of your family’s safety.

    However, most of the people mistakenly identify the red ants as being dangerous insect just because of their red bodies. The problem with this is that they are not aware of the potential hazards until something worse happens.

    Size

    Fire ants vs red ants size issue really is a piece of cake. Fire ants are 1/8 to 1/4 inches long while red ants are bigger in size.

    The truth is that different ants in the same community differ significantly in size. A colony of fire ants may consist of some worker ants that are as short as 1/16 inch, and some others almost 1/4 inch long. On the other hand, red ants are more uniform when it comes to size.

    Appearance: Fire ants vs Red Ants

    One of the most essential things to remember about the physical features that separate fire ants vs red ants is not just a size disadvantage.

    • Fire ants have two petioles (small bumps that are connecting the thorax to the abdomen). Red ants, on the other hand, have a single petiole in the same body region.
    • Another most important feature is their antenna’s structure. While the fire ants have 11-segmented antennae with the club made with 2 segments, the red ants have 10-segmented antennae with a similar club part but bigger and bolder than the fire ants.
    • The shape of the head of the red harvester worker ants is more contrasting, and it sometimes resembles a square head.

    What Do Fire Ants and Red Ants Eat?

    Food preference is the major behavior difference between fire ants and red ants as indicated by a variety of food sources from which they can choose.

    Fire ants are omnivorous. They eat both plant and animal matter. They get their food from insects, earthworms, spiders, seeds, nectar, fruits, and even small vertebrates. In addition, these pests feed on dead animals, and at any time, they can be seen seeking out protein sources. Fire ants are hunters and tend to eat whatever they can find. They are able to eat both liquids and solids, but only adult ants rely on larvae to break down solid foods.

    Red harvester ants are also called seed collectors as they gather and store seeds. Red ants usually collect seeds at certain times of the year and tend to forage at regular times.

    Color Differences

    Color differences between these pests can help you tell a lot about fire ants vs red ants. Fire ants have red-brown heads and thoraxes, but their abdomens are usually darker and often black. The two-colored bodies of fire ants make their pattern easy to identify in most species. Red fire ants have a copper-brown color, but their backs are darker.

    Their typical bright red to dark brown color is consistent throughout the body of red harvester ants. The two-colored patterns are confined to their respective species but may vary based on different environmental conditions.

    While some fire ants are completely black, others, mainly the worker ants, have a mix of red-brown and black color. Unlike fire ants, red ants can have black spots, but they do not have the clear two-color appearance.

    What to do for Red and Fire Ants in Your Yard?

    The existence of fire ants and red ants in your yard means that you should make quick decisions using different strategies-

    The fire ants are the most aggressive and destructive group of insects while they are also venomous and can cause painful stings. Without delay, call in a professional pest control team at once in case you find any fire ant mounds where children or pets usually play. Fire ants reacting to the slightest of disturbance come out in large numbers and are capable of causing severe reactions in people who are allergic to them.

    If you want to control the fire ant infestation, do not use any DIY treatments that are not certified safe for use in the problem. The exterminators have baits and treatments that are made for professional use only and cannot be purchased by homeowners.

    Fire ants moves inside your house when the weather gets too harsh outdoors. They come in search of food, water, and a place of shelter. Make sure to seal all the entry points around your house.

    Red ant management usually requires less intensive measures to be taken since these species hardly ever sting humans.

    Fire ants vs red ants treatment approaches differ significantly in urgency and methodology. In fact, red ants offer pest control benefits as they eat harmful insects and make the soil airy. Nevertheless, their painful stings near high-traffic areas demands professional removal.

    The two ant types can be controlled by using bait systems as well. It is a good practice to check around your property constantly whether there are any fresh mounds, most especially after heavy rain when fire ants are prone to changes in terms of the location of their colonies.

    Conclusion

    To sum up- knowing the differences between Fire Ants vs Red Ants helps with better pest management. Fire ants are dangerous to health because they swarm and sting painfully. It should be handled by professionals. Red ants are not harmful and can help the environment in many ways. When you know the difference between fire ants and red ants, it helps in right decision making to deal with these pests.

  • Ants Out! Ways on How to Get Rid of Fire Ants

    Ants Out! Ways on How to Get Rid of Fire Ants

    Introduction

    If you are one of the people who are looking for how to get rid of fire ants, you are at the right place.

    Fire ants are a problem graver than people generally think. They are a serious health hazard, be it for families or pets. Their stings can even cause allergic reactions sometimes. Knowing the ways to end the infestation of fire ants in a safe manner that does not take up a lot of time is important. This will help you in protecting yourself.

    Discover What Do Fire Ants Look Like?

    First, before you are able to exterminate them, you need to learn what do the fire ants look like.

    They are most often copper brown with a very dark in color, with a nearly black abdomen. The size of ants is between 2 to 6 millimeters. The shape of their bodies is like an hourglass with two large nodes right before the abdomen, which is clearly visible.

    The fire ants don’t attack first of all, rather they are provoked, if their mound is turned over, hundreds of them will be ready instantly and attack.

    Their mounds resemble dome-shaped heaps of upturned soil and typically do not have a readily identifiable entry point.

    One can find red-brown ants of various sizes coming out of these mounds in sunny places such as lawns, gardens, and even along the pavements. If you see different sizes of red-brown ants coming out from soil mounds, then you are dealing with fire ants. Understanding what do fire ants look like is the first step to any successful control strategy.

    Easy and Environmental Friendly Ways to Get Rid of Fire Ants

    In case you are the one that gives great importance to your health or you have pets and kids, it is quite possible that you will opt for the nature-based solutions as the starting point of how to get rid of fire ants. Here, we are presenting you the safe and proven remedies:

    • Hot Water: You have to pour 2-3 gallons of boiling water directly to the nest. In this case, you should be very careful, as this method can damage the grass and plants nearby and you might also have to repeat the process.
    • Diatomaceous Earth (DE): You can either sprinkle food-grade DE around and on the nest. The powdered type of DE makes them dehydrated. It is non-toxic to human beings and animals.
    • Beneficial Nematodes: Residing in the soil, these microscopic creatures are capable of killing fire ants within a few days. Apply nematodes as per the guidelines given on the package and then don’t forget to water the area in the end for the best outcome.
    • Botanical Oils: Citrus oil which is rich in the monoterpene d-limonene, peppermint, and rosemary oils are natural ant repellents. Adding water to the citrus oil will allow it to be poured over the nest. If diluted essential oils are sprayed all over the ant tracks, it’s quicker to move the ants away.
    • Dish Soap and Cayenne Pepper: Mix cayenne pepper and dish soap with water and then you can either water the mound with it.

    Despite the fact that these natural substances may reduce the number of ants significantly, but the likelihood of completely wiping out the colonies of fire ants remains rather low.

    How to Get Rid of Fire Ants Permanently

    1. Try the two-step method:

    • First off, spread the fire ant bait all over the infested site. This method enables the worker ants to transfer the bait to the colony and locate the queen, thus cutting off reproduction.
    • It is necessary to be patient and in 2–3 days after the bait application go to the next step.

    2. Treat Individual Mounds:

    Apply mound drenches (using hot water, citrus oil solutions, or approved insecticides) directly onto visible mounds to kill remaining colonies. Do mound treatments again when needed to get rid of new or still persisting ones.

    Repeat as required for stubborn or new mounds.

    3. Reapply Baits Periodically:

    To prevent reinfestation, broadcast bait once or twice a year, especially in spring and fall.

    4. Monitor and Maintain:

    Regularly inspect your yard for new activity and treat promptly to stop colonies from reestablishing.

    5. Consider Professional Help:

    For big and stubborn infestations, consult pest control professionals. They offer targeted, long-lasting solutions.

    Conclusion

    If you want a reliable, expert assistance in the field, just leave it to SayNoPest.

    You can take the necessary measures at the earliest moment, in this way, you take the forefront of not only your safety but the well-being of your family. Be aware that without the right information, and no good plan of action on how to get rid of fire ants, there is nothing you can achieve.

  • Elongated Twig Ants: Friend or Foe?

    Elongated Twig Ants: Friend or Foe?

    Introduction

    The twig ants can be found in almost all the states of America and is the problem for the countryside houses in the USA. In this blog we will help you find out all about elongated twig ants. Starting with their appearance and ending with the prevention and control measures.

    What Are Twig Ants?

    Twig ants is a special species of ants, known as Pseudomyrmex gracilis, scientifically. These are found in Mexico, particularly Florida, Texas, and Hawaii. They are often referred to as elongated twig ants or “Mexican twig ants“. Usually, they are found in warm climates and nest in trees, dead twigs, or dry plant material.

    Twig Ants can help in the fight against other pest insects. Although their painful stings are the reason for which they are not accepted by people, homes, and gardens as such.

    Appearance of Elongated Twig Ants

    Elongated twig ant has some characteristics that set it apart from other insects of its kind:

    These ants are longer than the rest of the ants and you can easily see the difference if you compare the sizes of 8-10 millimeters with 5/16 and 2/5 inches. Their bodies are long, thin, and wasp-like, with big, oval eyes and long legs and feelers.

    The stem ants are of different colors. Mostly they are two-colored: the dark part covers the head and the abdomen while the part of the body such as the thorax, antennae, and legs are colored in a burnt orange or red-brown shade. Such a pattern helps these ants to stay hidden among the greenery and give an impression of the stem themselves.

    Twig ants do not simply stay in one place when they are disturbed. They exhibit a kind of behavior similar to darting, and the ants reposition their nests if they are repetitively disturbed.

    How to Get Rid of Twig Ants?

    The most effective ways to deal with elongated twig ants can be-

    • Seal all the Entries: Check the house for any cracks or holes where ants might enter and seal them with caulk.
    • Remove Nesting Material: Cut and trim trees and shrubs and gather up the dead twigs and plant debris.
    • Bait Stations: You will have to put on the entrance to the colony at the corners of the house, so that the ants are attracted to and then go and get the bait. Keep in mind. The worker ants will transport the bait to the colony, thus erasing the ants through this gradual process.
    • Hire a professional: An infestation of such aggressive pest requires quick, thorough control. If the infestation is severe or the nests are too high and hard to reach for the layman, one practical solution is to find an expert who is experienced in handling such issues. The latter knows what precaution areas are, has the means, and is in a better position to win the battle against twig ants while not causing any harm to the children or beneficial insects.

    Ways to Prevent Infestation of Elongated Twig Ants

    Below are a few steps through which you can safeguard your dwelling and garden:

    1. Regular Yard Maintenance: Regularly cut grass, bushes, and tree branches and make sure they are not near your house. Tall grass and  bushes are easy sources and the best places for elongated twig ants to hide.
    2. Get Rid of the Source of Food: Keep food in plastic containers, wash away crumbs, and spills immediately, and pet food should also be kept away from the floor.
    3. Inspect plants regularly: Check the plants and outdoor furniture for signs of twig ants before taking them inside.
    4. Create Sticky Barriers: Wrap the tree trunks and plant stems with sticky substances like Tanglefoot to prevent ant climbing.
    5. Secure Home Exteriors: Review and then seal any cracks or gaps in your household’s windows, and doors. This will make it impossible for ants to enter your home.
    6. Maintain Good Sanitation in your Kitchen: Keep the kitchen and dining areas clean to get rid of anything that could attract pests.

    Conclusion

    Among ants, twig ants, particularly the elongated twig ant are highly interesting. Besides the wasp-like form and horrible sting, which make them pretty troublesome, they also play a vital role in gardens by eliminating other pests. If stung by the twig ant, apply appropriate first aid and be on the lookout for any signs of allergies. By staying alert and giving these insects proper care, you can have a pest-free, safe and ecological home. Be proactive and let your information about twig ants be your shield that will maintain a safe environment for your family.

  • How to Get Rid of Pavement Ants Permanently

    How to Get Rid of Pavement Ants Permanently

    If keeping healthy is essential to you and you don’t like using many chemicals in your home to keep it free of pests, this article covers you. In this article, you will know how to get rid of pavement ants as well as the steps to prevent their appearance in the future!

    What Are Pavement Ants and Why They Cause a Problem?

    The pavement ants are small and nocturnal. They are black to dark brown ants that are not particularly harmful. They are mostly considered as pests when they intrude into our homes in search of food. The situation is likely to get out of control, if their colonies expand. It’s either 2-3 ants or up to thousands of ants, and then they are very hard to manage. If you want to understand how to get rid of pavement ants, then first, you must learn the habits and the sources that attract ants to come indoors.

    What Attracts Pavement Ants?

    how-to-get-rid-of-pavement-ants

    The main thing to win the fight with the pavement ants is to know what attracts pavement ants. Such ants are called the “opportunistic eaters”. Any food that is lying around in their way is their meal. Here is what they go for when they get inside your home:

    • Sweets: Pavement ants are known as small ants that have a taste for sweets. They go after sugar, honey, syrup, fruit, and even drink spills.
    • Proteins and Grease: Everything from cheese, nuts, bread, and crackers is their most wanted diet variety.
    • Pet Food: Do not leave your pet’s food overnight, or otherwise, you are inviting pavement ants over.
    • Moisture: The places where they find leaky pipes, wet basements, and moist spots under the sink are ants favourite places to live.
    • Trash and Crumbs: Just a small piece of bread left on the kitchen table or an overflowing garbage basket are enough for these ants.

    Let me give you an example- Jane, who is a health-conscious mother living in Atlanta, figured that in every spring she would get ants in her kitchen. Later, she discovered that children’s snack crumbs and the dog’s food bowl were the reason. This is when she got into the habit of cleaning up and keeping food in airtight containers. The ants were no longer to be found in the abundance they had earlier.

    5 Professional Ant Control Methods

    If the use of DIY tools is not working, or if the condition is not going away, you are fighting with a large and persistent infestation. It’s probably a smart move to go and get help from the experts at this point. Pest management professionals employ methods that make use of pesticides (IPM) to solve how to kill pavement ants. These methods are:

    • Thorough Inspection- including all hiding spots and trails, even the ones under the slabs, patios, and inside the walls, are located by the professionals.
    • Targeted baiting– Using professional-grade products that possess more efficient and powerful agents and are able to achieve the quickest elimination.
    • Perimeter treatments around the foundation and entry points, with the help of residual insecticides, create a barrier for new ants to enter the house.
    • Habitat modification– including sealing of all cracks, removing debris, and reducing moisture sources, to make your property less attractive to pests.
    • Follow-up visits- These are conducted in the case when the infestation persists even after multiple trials.

    The professionals are already equipped with stronger agents and specialized devices that are not accessible to the general public. This makes pest control companies the best choice for such matters.

    Conclusion

    Getting rid of pavement ants is a tricky process. First of all, the removal of what attracts ants and the cleanliness of your living area will almost guarantee the ants will leave. However, if the infestation is hard-core, donot think twice before contacting someone who can solve how to get rid of pavement ants once and for all.

  • Do Carpenter Ants Eat Wood Like Termites?

    Do Carpenter Ants Eat Wood Like Termites?

    Introduction

    Carpenter ants are one of the most viral house pests in America. But wait a minute, do carpenter ants eat wood? The answer to the question is vital to people who are in the flock of those wanting to maintain lovely houses free from infestation of pests. However, let me give you a hint- they are builders not eaters!

    Just imagine a scenario: you are enjoying at your home, sipping coffee when suddenly you notice a line of big black ants coming through your kitchen counter. And, further on, you find a suspicious heap of sawdust near the edge of the window. The panic starts-are the ants hollowing out your house from its core? If you have ever asked yourself the question, do carpenter ants eat wood, you would be surprised as it is exactly your case. It’s about the right time to know the facts and tell the difference between carpenter ants and termites before your sweet home becomes hollow.

    Carpenter Ant Diet- Builders not Eaters!

    Before we start off answering the big question, do carpenter ants eat wood, let us quickly explore the type of food that these ants normally go for.

    • The carpenter ant only give a limited sigh of relief because the real situation is, they are not as dangerous as the termites. They just do not eat wood but are also the only source of nutrition for their lives i.e. carbohydrates and proteins.
    • The ants usually eat the living and the dead insects that they catch while still outside their nest. This act is mainly for protein purposes.
    • Alternatively, when those insects produce a sweet sticky substance called honeydew, the honeydew also becomes the ant food. This element is purely because some insects produce honeydew as a result of extracting juices from plants. These ants actually drink the honeydew, as it has a high sugar content, and also use it as a delicacy to get the living insects excited so they can take more honeydew from them.
    • Once in a while, they manage to capture a variety of food from your kitchen like-
    • Jelly
    • Cold Meat or Pork
    • Sugary Food
    • Syrup
    • Honey
    • Their cravings for sweetness are evident reasons behind the recurring kitchen invasions, especially when they are most active, i.e. at night. They just pick what satisfies their hunger.

    Do Carpenter Ants Eat Wood- NO!

    The latest information shows that No, they do not. Termites are able to digest wood because they have the necessary enzymes in their bodies.Carpenter ants can bore holes with wood since they are provided with very strong jaw muscles. They will use not to consume it, but to dig tunnels and unnecessary galleries for their nests.

    Besides digging, carpenter ants remove the wood shavings, referred to as frass, out of the nest a lot of times, which leads to those typical piles of sawdust around your house.

    Carpenter Ants are often misrepresented as wood-eaters. But a wood-eater eats the wood away. In actuality, they are just making a way for the colony’s expansion. Yes, there is significant damage they can physically do, especially if the wood is damp or rotten but anyhow, they do not actually consume the wood they bore through. Hence, every time you’ve asked, do carpenter ants eat wood, keep in mind that you’ve also taught them that they are builders, not eaters.

    How to Know if It’s a Termite or a Carpenter Ant Eating Your Wood?

    The source of the problem which can either be termites or carpenter ants. The good thing is, it’s easy to distinguish the culprit even without professional help:

    1. Appearance: Carpenter ants are mostly black or red and black, with a marked narrow waist and slightly curved antennae. Termites are smaller, and their bodies are straight with straight antennae.
    2. Wings: Both flying termites and carpenter ant species are similar, with termite wings being of the same size, while carpenter ants frontal wings appear to be more prosomal in comparison with their hind wings.
    3. Frass: Is that pile of sawdust mixed with insect parts? If yes, it would be a good guess if I say it was from carpenter ants. It is important also to know that termite droppings look like small, hard, and not mixed with wood shavings.
    4. Moisture: Carpenter ants can usually be found in wet, decaying wood, near a leak, or in a water-damaged area, which is their preference. Termite species determine whether the wood should be dry or wet.
    5. Visibility: Carpenter ants are most commonly known as food gatherers, especially at night. But termites are not seen outside their tunnels when they are not swarming.

    If you have doubts, you must refer to a pest control professional. A correct identification is the first step in the treatment and prevention of the infestation.

    Conclusion:

    Just know that they only cut the wood for building their nests and not to eat it. The best way to defend your home against ants is to keep it dry, close the entry points, and eliminate food sources. By being alert, your house will remain a clean, healthy, and ant-free area.

  • How to Get Rid of Black Ants Fast

    How to Get Rid of Black Ants Fast

    Imagine seeing a column of small, shiny, black ants crawling towards your kitchen counter. These tiny unwelcomed visitors are one of the most common household pests in the U.S. . This article will help you take a look at the situation and know the real identity of black ants. Most importantly it will tell you how to get rid of black ants completely.

    What Types of Ants Are Black Ants?

    how-to-get-rid-of-black-ants

    First of all, not all black color ants are alike. However, we know that “black ant” is a collective name for several species of ants. Each species has its own characteristics, favorite food, and habitat:

    1. Black Garden Ants (Lasius niger): The black ant found in the garden, these insects are shiny.
    2. Carpenter Ants (Camponotus spp.): They are larger in size (up to ½inch), and have the capability of doing more harm. They chew their way through wet wood, thus endangering the house’s stability and safety.
    3. Little Black Ants (Monomorium minimum): Small being (1.5-2 mm) but great power, they get into the kitchen through the tiniest cracks and crevices, lured by their sweet tooth and protein hunger.
    4. Pavement Ants (Tetramorium caespitum): Pavement ants are named so because they build nests in or under cracks in pavement. These dark brown to black ants can also invade structures.

    Even though the majority of black ants are not harmful, you should be aware of the urgency of the carpenter ants issue as they are a real destructive force.

    Characteristics: Size, Color, Structure, and Risks!

    About black ants, some of their characteristics are common while others differ to a large extent in terms of behavior and hazard:

    • Size: Fits in the range from 1.5 mm (little black ants) to ½ inch (carpenter ants). Workers are the ones who are tinier, while queens get bigger.
    • Color: Shiny black bodies, although carpenter ants might have reddish tinges.
    • Structure: Bent at the elbow antennae, the bodies are segmented into parts (head, thorax, abdomen), and there are mandibles strong to the extent of being able to do the work of digging or chewing.
    • Behavior: Black garden ants are the ones who farm aphids and prosper in the soil. Carpenter ants are the ones who dig out the wet wood but do not eat it. In addition to that, little black ants are the ones who are involved in the formation of slow-moving trails toward sugary or oily foods.
    • Black garden ants farm aphids and thrive in soil.
    • Carpenter ants excavate moist wood but don’t eat it.
    • Little black ants form slow-moving trails to sugary or greasy foods.

    Are Black Ants Dangerous?

    • Most black ants are considered as the structural pests mainly for their wood-bearing ability. They are capable of constructing tunnels to their nests in the beams of your house resulting in your home being seriously damaged.
    • Most black ants are regarded as domestic pests, while carpenter ants are able to destroy the wood in buildings.
    • Bites are now and then only if occurs that not to be that serious, may be dangerous mainly if a person is allergic, but their presence can still pass on disease to humans through contamination of food.

    5 Proven Ways on How to Get Rid of Black Ants

    how-to-get-rid-of-black-ants
    • Seal Entry Points: Seal all the cracks in the walls, windows, and foundation with caulk so that the lines of the black ant trails are broken.
    • Use Borax Baits: Sugar and borax in a 1:8 ratio are dissolved in water. Soon one can find the cotton balls with this solution, next to the nest- the ants will bring the poison back to the colony.
    • Natural Repellents: Along the pathways of ants spray, the vinegar and water solution or peppermint oil to deter their scents.
    • Eliminate Food Sources: Close-fitting lids of containers, spotless kitchen floors, and taking-out of, residues on a daily basis are the best ways to get rid of ants.
    • Call Pros for Severe Infestations: It is best to use professional-grade insecticides on the persistent colonies of carpenter ants.

    Conclusion:

    Though black ants may go unnoticed in your space, they still have the power to cause considerable damage. The more promptly you learn the species and start the process of eradication (plugging of entry points, baiting, and staying clean), the better chances of success you will have and it will be easier for you to get the control of the situation. Keep in mind: Black ants are mostly after your food, but carpenter ants are a direct threat to you. The key is to be the one who takes care and not allow the tiny creatures overstaying in your home!

    Knowing the right strategies, the problem of how to get rid of black ants infestation can be solved easily. It’s time to go and have that snack without ants interfering!

  • How to Remove Carpenter Ants: Top 10 Methods

    How to Remove Carpenter Ants: Top 10 Methods

    One of the most common threat to homeowners in the United States are the infestations of carpenter ants. They build their nests in the wood by making tunnels and thus cause damages to homes. These are very expensive to repair. Unlike termites, they don’t eat wood. Knowing how to kill carpenter ants is necessary for many reasons, let’s explore them in this article!

    Do carpenter ants bite?

    You may ask yourself, do carpenter ants bite? They do bite, but it is a rare thing. Carpenter ants bite only when are provoked in any way.But, even when they do, their bites are light and pose no risk to the health of humans and pets. You might sense a slight burning feeling, but it will go away quickly. Unlike fire ants, the bites of carpenter ants cause problems like small swelling, etc.

    10 Ways for how to kill carpenter ants

    how-to-kill-carpenter-ants

    Got the problem? Here are ten proven methods of how to kill carpenter ants and to keep your home free from them:

    1. Find the Nest:

    Your first course of action in the endeavor of how to kill carpenter ants would be to locate their nest. The signs you can look for are piles of sawdust, noises of movement in walls, or a group of ants trailing along the way to the wet wood.

    2. Use Ant Baits:

    Place purchased or homemade ant baits on the ant routes. Worker ants will transport the bait back to the nest, thus they will spread the poison and rid the colony. It can be said that one of the best alternatives to how to kill carpenter ants is this method here.

    3. Use Non-Repellent Insecticides:

    Apply a non-repellent insecticide around the house boundary. Carpenter ants would not be able to sense those insecticides hence they will walk through them and would eventually carry the toxins back to the nest.

    4. Powder Insecticides:

    Dust the wall voids, baseboards, or other infested areas with insecticide. The dust gets stuck on the ants and penetrates throughout the colony, making it an efficient way to kill carpenter ants.

    5. Boric Acid and Borax:

    Both boric acid and borax are kid and pet-safe as long as followed basic safety rules. Feed the ants sugar or peanut butter mixed with the substances, and in no time, they will consume the food. These baits work slowly and thus give the ants enough time to spread the poison.

    6. Food-Grade Diatomaceous Earth:

    Dust diatomaceous onto ant trails and other places they are entering the house through. The product, being all-natural, cuts off the water supply and kills the ants in one fell swoop. It is a non-toxic way to how to kill carpenter ants.

    7. Close the entry:

    Close the openings like cracks, gaps, and holes with the help of sealants for windows, doors, and foundations to not let the ants in. By doing this, you not only keep those creatures away, but you also send them to bait stations.

    8. Eliminate Dampness:

    Carpenter ants simply adore waterlogged wood. Therefore, it makes sense that eliminating excess moisture, fixing leaks, more natural ventilation, and keeping wood dry would repel these pests.

    9. Cut Off Vegetation:

    Remove the extension of tree branches and shrubs close to your house. Ants heavily rely on these to access our homes so by trimming you effectively reduce their reach.

    10. Consult a Professional:

    If your own attempts at pest management are unsuccessful, contact a pest control service. Professionals have access to a wider variety of products and have the necessary skills. They safely and thoroughly exterminate a big infestation, thus giving you full relief from the problem.

    What kills carpenter ants?

    how-to-kill-carpenter-ants

    Know what kills carpenter ants, to end their infestation. The most favorable outcome is achieved using a combination of the most suitable baits and insect poison.

    • Bait that is enhanced by a combination of Boric Acid, Abamectin, and Fipronil: This kind of new bait has proven to be very useful in ant eradication. The transport of the bait by the ants to the nest causes the destruction of the entire colony, along with the queen.
    • Repellent-free reception of Aerosols: The products filled with zeta-cypermethrin or any other similar ingredient are able to get rid of ants immediately upon contact and at the same time, they keep affecting the ants going through the treated surfaces.
    • Food-Grade Diatomaceous Earth and powdered Borax: Those are the natural ways of ant control that are non-toxic to your pets and are functional in a way that the ants are killed by either causing damage to their exoskeleton or by disturbing their digestive systems.
    • Perimeter Insecticide Dust: It is possible to go to the extent of the colony in to kill them where other methods such as sprays and baits do not have the reach. 
    • Chemicals that are of Professional Grade: People who carry licenses can employ special baits and sprays that are not accessible to the public and as a result, they can solve severe infestations more comprehensively.

    Just adhere to the label’s instructions so as to safeguard pets and also do not put baits or chemicals where pets can get access to them. Always observe pet safety instructions and avoid baits or chemicals in places where pets can easily find them.

    Conclusion

    After you have acquired the knowledge and you understand how to kill carpenter ants, you will protect your home and your pets from damage and discomfort. Ants is a persistence issue in homes, so you have to follow all the instructions and keep your house dry and clean all the time. If at any moment, you feel the need to go to others for help, please do not postpone contacting the professionals.