You shouldn’t underestimate how detrimental ants can be. They might be small and commonplace, but they will wreak havoc on your property. If an infestation develops, the only hope you have of overcoming them is professional pest control in Oklahoma City. They can get indoors without any obstacles, and their colonies are very large. Several species can damage homes or landscaping, such as carpenter ants in Oklahoma City. Regardless of the kind, they can pass along germs and make you sick.
One of the reasons expert care is needed is that retail ant control solutions can make things worse. Some species are relatively resistant to insecticides, and aggravating them with sprays can cause these insects to expand their system of nests. Find out about ant services near your home from Brandley Pest Control.
The Types Of Ants That Invade Oklahoma City Homes
Carpenter ants and acrobat ants are two of the most widespread ant species in the region. Carpenter ants stand out from other subtypes because of their larger size. On average, they are ½ to ¾ of an inch long. Generally, these pests are black; however, many are brown, reddish-black, and red. You can identify workers by their thick mandibles, and reproductive swarmers by their wings. Carpenter ants can do significant damage to your home by chewing through structural wood and constructing nests inside of it.
Acrobat ants are ⅛ of an inch long. While many are black, an equal number are light brown. Their abdomen is in the shape of a heart. These insects are known for emitting a foul odor and biting people when they feel threatened. Another issue with acrobat ants is that they’ll strip the insulation from electrical wires, which may result in a short circuit. They often settle in trees and wood cavities.
Should I Worry If I Have Ants In My House?
Without appropriate ant control, you could have a foodborne illness. For instance, salmonellosis, shigellosis, or an E. coli infection. These insects can taint meals with the bacteria that is on their bodies, not to mention microbes that are in their urine, feces, and saliva. It’s highly possible that ants will contaminate tables and countertops as well, as they come into your home after crawling in all kinds of unsanitary locations.
What Attracts Ants To A Home?
Logically, ants will go where there’s plenty of water and food. Your yard has many things they can feast on, including stalks, seeds, fungi, and plants.
If there are any deceased pests around, ants will eat them up. Birds, wasps, squirrels, and mice are examples. Aphid byproducts are a part of their diet too. Your kitchen will provide them with meat, sugar, grains, and more. Of course, they’ll get water from your plumbing sources.
Central ant prevention tips focus on securely containing food and trash, cleaning dining areas, and seeing to it that moisture-based repairs are done. Outdoors, it’s important to maintain a neatly trimmed lawn and put plants feet away from your home.
How To Get Rid Of Ants In Your Lawn
Over-the-counter pesticides, carpenter ant sprays, and similar are heavily relied upon, but they shouldn’t be. Depending on the situation, these products can exacerbate nesting problems, and they fail to eliminate entire colonies. Pest control professionals will know what approach is suitable for what species, as well as the most effective ways to ensure that the entire ant population has been addressed, not just the few ants you happen to see.
If you have an infestation, reach out to us at Brandley Pest Control. We have safe solutions for the interior and exterior of your home. We’ll restore your home to its ant-free status without you having to worry. Call or email us today to schedule a free inspection!