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What Are Ants?

Ants belong to the order Hymenoptera, which is the same order as bees and wasps, and they are a common site for homeowners. We see them marching across our lawns, our driveways, and our kitchens. Even though many species of ants invade our yards and homes, two of the most common species living in our area of Tennessee are the common odorous house ant and the Argentine ant. Both are small, dark-colored ants that like to feed and nest in our homes. Ants differ in size, color, behavior, and nesting sites, depending on the species, but all species of ants have a few things in common. All ants have three defined body regions (head, thorax, and abdomen), and narrow waists between their abdomens and thoraxes. Ants also have large heads with two bent antennae, and powerful chewing mouthparts. The reproductive members of the colony, fertile males and females (queens), have wings. In the spring, winged ants fly from their nest to find a mate and create a new ant colony.

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What Are Ants?

Ants can be dangerous, depending on their species. Most of the species we come across are not a threat, and are just a nuisance to us. However, some species of ants are dangerous to people or property. Problems that dangerous ants create include the following:

  • Delivering painful bites or venom-filled stings
  • Damaging structural wood
  • Spreading disease-causing pathogens that make people ill
  • Invading and causing damage to electrical, circuit boxes, or farm equipment

It is important to note that no matter the species, all ants can contaminate our food and the surfaces of our home. At the first sign of ants on your property, call for professional help to eliminate these pests from your home or yard.

Why do I have an ant problem?

Ants live in a variety of outdoor spaces and may deem any of our yards as a place that is suitable to nest or forage for food. Places where ants regularly forage include open trash cans, gardens, outdoor eating areas, and pet food bowls. When living near a home or other structure, ants will take advantage of any openings they discover to move inside. Easy access to food, areas of moisture, and trying to escape harsh weather conditions are the most common reasons ants invade homes.

Where will I find ants?

Ants live together in structured colonies. Each member of the colony has a specific job they are responsible for. Ants create their nest at ground level, below ground level, and sometimes aerially in shrubs or trees.

Some of the most common places that ants make their nests outside include in the soil under logs, fallen trees, woodpiles, mulch, or the ground next to foundations or sidewalks. Many species of ants, including house ants and Argentine ants, create their indoor nests near areas of moisture. Walls voids near pipes, heating units, air conditioners, and large appliances are popular nesting sites. Ants also like to nest under floors, in attics, and behind cabinets.

Where will I find ants?

Ants live together in large colonies, often with multiple nesting sites. The task of eliminating ants from your Tennessee property should be left to a professional. At Colonial Pest Control, we have 50 years of combined pest control experience. We know pests and how to eliminate them from properties once and for all!

We guarantee our results and take pride in treating our customers like family. We are a local company dedicated to using only the most efficient, cutting-edge services possible. If you are looking for exceptional pest solutions for your Knoxville area home or business, contact the pest professionals here at Colonial Pest Control today!

How can I prevent ants in the future?

In addition to our professional pest control services, take the time necessary to implement these easy-to-execute prevention tips:

  • Many species of ants are attracted to areas of moisture. Eliminating excess moisture in and around your home is a good way to deter ant activity. Fix leaky pipes, keep gutters in good working order, and use dehumidifiers and air conditioners.
  • Food is another attractant for ants. Pick up your pet’s food and water bowls each evening. Vacuum and wipe down counters to get rid of crumbs and spills.
  • Keep tight-fitting lids on outdoor trash cans, make sure outdoor eating areas are free of food debris, and maintain garden areas.
  • Store left-over food in the refrigerator or containers with tight-fitting lids. Never leave food out in the open on counters or tables.
  • Block their access into your home by inspecting the exterior of your house. Seal up openings in the foundation, repair damaged siding or shingles, place caps on chimneys, and install door sweeps on exterior doors.
  • It is also important to seal up spaces around wires, cables, and air conditioning units entering your home.
  • Outside, be sure to store firewood away from the exterior walls of your house, remove fallen trees and tree stumps, and create a 12 to 18-inch barrier between soil or mulch and your foundation.