Pest of the Month: Odorous House Ant
There are many different species of ants in the country, but there are a select few species that can infest your home. The odorous house ant is one of those species and it’s best to know all you can, so you can properly identify and exterminate them.
Breakdown
- Size: 1/16 – 1/8 of an Inch
- Color: Brown or Black
- Distinguishing Characteristics: Oval shaped; segmented body with small abdomen; give off a rotten coconut-like smell when crushed.
- Whereabouts: Found near sources of moisture; leaky pipes, hot water heaters, termite infested wood, in stacks of firewood, and in damp soil. (Found throughout the U.S.)
What They Infest
Odorous house ants are commonly found inside and outside of a home, as long as there’s a source of moisture. If you saw a nest of these ants a few months ago, chances are they have moved on since then. These pests will usually move their nest every 3 months or if there’s a pooling of rain elsewhere in or near the house. Be careful with where you place your sweets because odorous house ants will be looking for your candy or fruit.
Pest Management
Since odorous house ants are attracted to moisture, inspect your home for any standing water and remove it immediately. Look to fix what created the standing water such as leaky pipes, roof leaks, or an unfinished crawl space. For added insurance, keep firewood several feet away from your home, keep plants from touching the house, and repair any cracks or holes in the siding and foundation. If an infestation occurs, opt for professional pest management services.
Odorous house ants can become a serious nuisance if the infestation is not managed as soon as it is discovered. When you need to rid your home of ants of any type, contact the professionals at Knockout Pest Control. To learn more, or to schedule an inspection, give us a call at (800) 244-7378.
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