Ants…Answers to your Questions

Sometimes it best to get back to the basics. Below are some of the questions our customers ask when they call us about an ant infestation.

What causes ants to come into the house? – Answer: Worker ants are looking for a food source. They travel everywhere and like to live close to where they find food.

Why do ants only surface just before my social events? – Answer: Most likely the social event involves food or drink which is attractive to ants.

If I have ants – is that a sign of termite activity? Answer: No, but it does not mean you do not have termites either.

What is the difference between an ant and a termite? Answer: Ants have distinct segments on their bodies or a pinched waist, termites do not.

Do ants bite?…Are they harmful? Answer: Some ants can sting but very few are harmful. It is best not to handle any insect unless you are informed.

What are the different types of ants that I will find in my area? Answer: Pavement ants, odorous house ants, pharaoh ants, field ants, carpenter ants, citronella ants, little black ants, and velvet ants are most common here. The velvet ant is actually a wasp and should be avoided because it can deliver a powerful sting.

Do you have pictures of the various ants? Answer: Yes "click here"

What are the signs to look for with an ant infestation" Answer: Sand piles, ant trails, sawdust or accumulating debris.

How would you apply your products to control my infestation? Answer: Methods differ with the type of ant and location of the nest. An inspection should precede the treatment.

Is the treatment harmful to wildlife? Answer: No, applications are pest specific and products used have low mammalian toxicity and are placed where non-target creatures can't access them.

If you have a question regarding an ant problem that did not get answered in this blog contact me at: protectingyou@permtreat.com and I will get the answer for you.

Ants are a problem this time of year and everyone has them. Contact us for your free inspection…it's best to get them under control early as opposed to waiting until your social event!