Ants are social insects that typically live in underground colonies and have several different types or castes of individuals. Each caste has a different function or job in the colony. Ant identification is relatively simple due to their three distinct body regions: head, thorax and abdomen, as well as antennae. Despite similar construction, ants vary in overall appearance. Small or large ants and brown or black ants are common nicknames for different species. Ants have been around for millions of years, are very adaptable, hardy and hard to kill. They also work together as a group, which makes them perfect for the work they do. Ant colonies can number anywhere from a few hundred to millions upon millions! Each ant has a specific job: queen, soldier, worker or drone, but they can all unite to defend the colony, swarming over attackers. Ants are known for being strong. A single ant can carry objects much larger than its own size. Some ants can survive even if parts of their bodies are damaged and some have been known to last for weeks without food or water.
Workers forage for food, construct the nest and care for the young and the reproductives. Reproductives include the original queen and the swarmers. The original queen’s job is to lay eggs. Swarmers are winged males and females that fly out to start new colonies and spread to new areas. These swarmers mate during the swarm, and the male dies soon after. The queen then locates a suitable nesting site, sheds her wings and begins to set up a colony.
Ants are industrious and breed fast. That's why a few ants found in the kitchen can quickly become an infestation. Their size means they can get into almost anything from closets, pantries, cupboards and into food and food containers. Ants leave behind chemical trails that attract more ants, and soon you have lines of ants walking through your kitchen.
Ants are pests because they:
At Pest Web we know how to get rid of ants. We are experts in finding nests, removing the infestation and creating barriers to prevent them from returning. Some of the most common ants we deal with are.
Most ants only come into your home to look for food. They are attracted to anything that’s sweet and sticky, which is why you find ants in kitchen cupboards or areas where food is kept. With that in mind it’s important to not leave temptation in their path. To get rid of ants you must remember to:
Above all, cover any food in storage areas - you don’t know where ants have been walking before they march across your food.
Did you know once an ant has discovered a food source it leaves a pheromone trail. This chemical helps other ants from the colony to find the food too meaning more ants are on their way into your home or business! Our pest control technicians know what’s what when it comes to ant deterrents. They understand the habits of different types of ant and can offer the most appropriate and effective solution. They can also help you remove infestations and activity around your home or business. It goes without saying that all our treatments are safe for people and pets. The type of ant that is invading your home, the location of their trails, the type of structure they are infesting and the needs of your family and pets all factor into the types of treatments our ant control experts will recommend. We strive to find the source of the infestation, eliminate the colony using a variety of methods, and then help you seal up entrances and find ways to prevent further infestations. We'll help you get rid of ants and keep them away.
Whatever species of ant you might have, we have methods to remove them. Call Pest Web on 0772 645 531 to talk to an expert about ant control or to find out how to get rid of ants . We are glad to assist!
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