So, Where Do the Ants Come From?
Ants are a common household problem, and knowing where they come from is your first step to getting rid of them. Figuring out how they’re getting in and where they’re setting up shop is key to preventing future infestations.
We’ll go over the usual suspects for entry points, what attracts them, and where they like to build their nests. We’ll also discuss how to prevent ants from coming back and when it’s time to call in the professionals.
How ants get inside your house
Ants are resourceful little critters, and they don’t need much of an opening to get inside your house. Here are a few common entry points:
Entry points
Ants can squeeze through the tiniest cracks and crevices. If there’s a gap as small as 1/64 of an inch, they can probably get through it.
Take a look at the silicone sealant around your pipes and baseboards, and check for gaps around windows and doors. Repair any damage you find.
Utility lines are another way ants can sneak inside. Because they often travel hidden routes, it can be hard to figure out how they’re getting in.
Attractants
Like any living thing, ants are drawn to food, water, and shelter. They’re especially fond of sweets, meats, starches, and liquids.
If you have any water leaks or standing water, make sure you get them fixed to eliminate those moisture sources.
Understanding ant colony behavior
To figure out where the ants are coming from, it helps to know a little bit about how ant colonies are structured and where they’re typically located.
Colony structure
Ant colonies can be surprisingly large. Depending on the species, a single colony may contain anywhere from 20,000 to 100,000 ants.
Typically, some ants will be foragers, scouting for food. When they find a promising food source, they’ll signal the other ants in the colony. Understanding how they signal can help you trace their trails back to the colony.
Nesting locations
Ant colonies are often located fairly close to where you see them entering your home — generally within 50 feet of the infestation point.
Nests can be hidden in a variety of places, including:
- Walls
- Floors
- Ceilings
- Soil
- Under insulation
Also, be aware that ants may create satellite colonies in hidden areas within your home or business.
Common Types of Ants Found Indoors
If you’re seeing ants in your home, you’re not alone. Several species are common indoor pests. You might find pavement ants, carpenter ants, odorous house ants, thief ants, acrobat ants, or pharaoh ants.
Carpenter ants are often drawn to damp or decaying wood, so check any wooden structures in and around your house for signs of damage. Look for things like soft spots or small piles of sawdust.
Identifying the type of ant you’re dealing with can help you choose the right treatment. Different species may require different control methods to get rid of them effectively.
How to prevent ant infestations
Here are a few things you can do to keep ants away:
- Eliminate food sources. Ants are attracted to food. Clean up spills immediately, store food in airtight containers, and take out the trash frequently.
- Seal entry points. Ants can squeeze through tiny cracks. Use caulk to seal any openings around windows, doors, and pipes.
- Maintain your yard. Ants like to nest in damp, dark places. Trim plants and remove debris from around your home’s foundation.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve tried everything to get rid of an ant infestation and they just keep coming back, it might be time to call in a pro. A qualified pest control service can help you figure out exactly what kind of ants you’re dealing with and pinpoint where the main colony is hiding.
Professionals also have access to specialized treatments and equipment that can get rid of the ants for good.