At Canton Termite and Pest Control our service techs. get calls to control ants year round. Cherokee County has several species that love to get into homes. And certain species of ants can show up in staggering numbers overnight, especially if they have discovered a food source.
Ants can build nests inside walls and insulation, but most of the time they are coming into the house from their nest which is located outside in the ground, woodpile, hollow tree, mulch bed, cross-tie wall, etc.
In the yard this time of year look out for the Red Imported Fire ants, They have reddish brown body and a darker abdomen. These ants have a stinger and can deliver a very painful sting. It ranges in size from 1/16-inch to 1/4-inch in length.
The Red Imported Fire ant has spread to more than 13 southern and western states and continues to expand their range. These ants can cause serious medical, agricultural, and property damage. They are very aggressive and will sting repeatedly, especially when their colony/mound is disturbed. Fire ants typically nest outdoors in sunny areas of exposed soil or lawns. Fire ant infestations may reach 30 to 100 single-queen mounds per acre, containing up to 80,000 ants. They prefer high-protein foods, but will feed on almost any plant or animal matter. Fire ant colonies will generally have their own territory, and will forage in established trails. They are attracted to electrical junction boxes and air conditioners. They will also nest in gas and water meter boxes and follow pipes into buildings.
Controlling ants can be very difficult. Certain species, such as pharaoh ants, will multiply their colonies (budding) if sprayed with a pesticide. Once they do this, they become much more difficult to control. That is why it is not a good idea for you to spray them yourself. You might see them disappear for a day or two, but when they show up again, it will be in multiple locations and you will have a much bigger problem. Using baiting tactics is the effective method for controlling pharaoh ants
Pest Management Professionals use an assortment of tools to treat for ants, including…
- Baits
- Sprays
- Dusts
- Sanitation
- Mechanical barriers
At Canton Termite and Pest Control, we practice Integrated Pest Management, which is the use of both chemical and non-chemical methods to control pests.
If you have a problem with ants…or any other pest…call Canton Termite and Pest Control at 770-479-1598. Ask to speak with Tim McWhirter, president and owner. He’ll be happy to speak with you and answer any questions you may have.
Also, be sure to ask about our FREE inspection of your home. Call to schedule your appointment today!
