Types Of Ants 

Carpenter Ants: Large ants (6-12 mm) that typically nest in moist or decaying wood, damaging structural integrity over time. They’re commonly black but can have reddish legs or thoraxes.

Pavement Ants: Small (2.5-4 mm), brownish-black ants that create nests in cracks of sidewalks and foundations, often entering homes through gaps.

Odorous House Ants: About 2-3 mm, these ants are dark brown to black and are attracted to sweet foods. Their name comes from the rotten, coconut-like odor they emit when crushed.

Ant Behavior

Colony Structure: Ant colonies are divided into queens, workers, and soldiers. Queens reproduce, while workers forage for food and maintain the nest.

Foraging Behavior: Ants leave their nests in search of food, typically sweets or protein-rich items. Once a food source is found, they lay down a pheromone trail for others to follow.

Nesting Habits: Carpenter ants prefer decayed wood, while pavement ants nest in soil or under rocks. Odorous ants may nest indoors in wall voids or beneath floors.

Signs of Infestation

Ant Trails: Active lines of ants moving between their nest and a food or water source.

Carpenter Ant Evidence: Look for small piles of wood shavings (frass) near wooden structures, which can indicate tunneling.

Nests: You might spot outdoor nests as small mounds of dirt or see ants entering through cracks in walls or the foundation.

Odor: A distinct, unpleasant smell when you crush an odorous house ant.

Dangers/Concerns

Structural Damage: Carpenter ants can compromise wooden structures, leading to costly repairs if infestations are left untreated.

Contamination: Odorous house ants can contaminate food, and their presence in kitchens or pantries is unsanitary.

Allergies/Bites: Though rare, some ants can bite or cause mild allergic reactions.

Prevention Tips

Seal Entry Points: Use caulk to seal cracks around windows, doors, and the foundation. Make sure screens and doors fit snugly.

Remove Food Sources: Keep kitchens clean and store food in airtight containers. Avoid leaving pet food out overnight.

Eliminate Moisture: Fix leaky pipes and reduce moisture buildup around windows and doors, as ants are often attracted to damp environments.

Outdoor Precautions: Trim back trees and shrubs touching your home, as ants often use these as bridges to enter.

Treatment Options

DIY Methods: Place ant baits in areas where you see activity. The ants will carry the bait back to the colony, helping to destroy it at the source. Ant repellents or barrier sprays can be applied around entry points to prevent entry.

Professional Services: AZ Pest Control uses specialized treatments such as residual insecticides and bait stations to eliminate ants, focusing on the root cause to prevent future infestations. Inspections are carried out to locate nests and remove colonies.

Why Choose AZ Pest Control

At AZ Pest Control, we not only eliminate visible ants but also target the colony to prevent further infestations. Our services are customized to the specific type of ant, ensuring long-lasting results with eco-friendly solutions. We offer follow-ups and preventative treatments to ensure your home stays ant-free.