5 Common Ant Species Found in the Home

Ants are generally one of the first creatures which come to mind when people hear the word “pest.” However, not all ants are the same. There are thousands of different ant species all around the world. If you have an ant infestation, it’s important to find out exactly which ants are giving you trouble, so you know what problems they may be causing, as well as the best ways to get rid of them. Here are five kinds of ants you may find in your home.

Argentine Ants

Argentine ants, hence, the name, are not originally from the United States but were accidentally brought over from Argentina. Argentine ants are dark brown, and although they usually live outside, they’re always eager to drop by, especially if they smell sugar or crumbs on your kitchen counter. Considering that having ants crawling over the places you eat can be dangerous to your health, it’s important that you keep your house clean and free of food particles.

Fire Ants

Fire ants are an especially obnoxious species of ants. Known for their painful stings, you don’t want to run into any of these pests while barefoot. Fire ants are usually found in the Southwest, and build their mounds in hot and dry climates, so if you live in New Mexico or Nevada, keep your eyes open.

Odorous House Ants

These pests are small, dark, and repugnant. Odorous house ants can often be found inside homes looking for shelter during the rain, and for a bite to eat. When crushed, Odorous house ants emit a foul smell which many have likened to a strong cheese or rotting coconuts. Try to seal any crack and opening around your house so you won’t have to deal with their scent.

Crazy Ants

Though fun to watch, crazy ants are not something you want in your home. Crazy ants are small and extremely quick, often moving in unpredictable and erratic patterns. They also nest around electronics, using them for warmth. Crazy ants travel in colonies of thousands, so trying to handle an infestation of them can prove tedious.

Carpenter Ants

Finally, there are Carpenter ants. While the other ants on this list can be problematic, carpenter ants can cause thousands of dollars in repairs. They tunnel through wooden beams and supports in your house, slowly destroying it as they do. If you have these ants in your home, hire a pest control expert immediately before the damage they do becomes too great.

Ants are natural troublemakers. From spreading germs to stinging your legs to destroying your house, the problems they can cause are mountainous. If you have an ant infestation, it’s important to identify which ants they are and get them removed as soon as possible. For more information, or to receive quality pest control services, contact Action Pest and Turf today.