Ants can cause problems that range from annoying right up to destructive to property and harmful to people. It all depends on the species of ant we’re talking about. Regardless of the kind of ant, it’s never good to have an infestation of them in your home or even in your yard. Here is a quick guide to identifying ants in Columbus that might help you determine the kind of ant problem you have and the best way to get rid of ants in your Columbus home.
Types of Ants in Columbus
Carpenter Ants
There are several different species of ant in Columbus, Ohio. The most prevalent is the carpenter ant. Carpenter ants are larger than other species of ants. They can grow to be between 3.5 to 13mm in length. Typically these ants are black or reddish. They are most often found outdoors, particularly if there is decaying or wet wood available. Carpenter ants will be attracted to food sources left behind by humans, and in particular, they are attracted to sweets. While carpenter ants are attracted to wood, it is not to eat. They tunnel into the wood to build nests. Carpenter ant should be dealt with as soon as possible. They can cause a great deal of damage to any wooden structure, including porches, decks, and even your home.
Pavement Ants
Pavement ants are common in Ohio. They are light brown or black. The legs and antennae are typically a lighter color than their bodies. They range in size from 2.5-3mm. Pavement ants normally make nests and stay outside, but they don’t mind entering a home to find food. When they do enter a home, they leave a trail for other ants to follow. Pavement ants swarm in the summer and reproduce to create new colonies. While they aren’t typically harmful, they will bite if threatened.
Odorous Ants
These ants are small and dark brown to black. When crushed, they give off the smell of rotten coconut. They will come into homes, particularly after it rains. Finding their nests can be difficult because they build behind walls, under floors, or in moist places.
Pharaoh Ants
These are small ants, yellow in color, with red and black markings on the abdomen. They can be a real nuisance because they can withstand winter by entering buildings for heat. They are also sneaky and will relocate a nest if it is disturbed. Nests can be found under floors, in cabinets, and just about anywhere inside or outside the home. They are attracted to sweets but will eat a variety of other foods as well.
All ants are annoying. They get into your food, they will climb on people, and they bite. Ants can cause allergic reactions, skin rashes, or swelling in some cases. A little prevention may help you decrease the chance of ants getting into your home.
Ant Prevention Tips For Your Columbus Home
- Keep your home clean and food sealed. This means keeping food sources off the floor, including pet foods, when possible. Ants can be attracted to the smallest amount of food, and once they begin coming in, it’s hard to stop them.
- Seal openings in your home. This can help prevent ants from coming into your home, but it can be tough to do it thoroughly. Ants can get through openings so small you may not see them.
- Watch for scout ants and eliminate them.
- Remove any ant trails you detect.
TIP: There are lots of ant sprays, ant bait, and ant traps on the market. Many of these are poisonous or dangerous to people and pets. Some are simply ineffective and unlikely to rid your home of a large number of ants. Use these with caution.
Professional Pest Control for Ants is the Best Solution
Do you have problems with ants in and around your Columbus home? If so, call 1st Response Pest at (614) 591-8745. Our professional pest control experts have the knowledge and the tools needed to get rid of your ant problem today. We offer commercial and residential services, licensed pest management techs, and customer care that goes above and beyond. Let us help you get rid of your pests today.