How to Prevent Ants at Your Summer Cookout

New York is home to many species of ants, so it’s likely you’ll end up with these pests at some point or another. To make the most of the rest of summer and enjoy ant-free cookouts, we have several simple tips to knock ‘em out. 

Common Outdoor Ant Species in New York 

Here are some of the most common outdoor species found in New York: 

Pavement ants (Tetramorium caespitum) are typically black or dark brown, and they can be found in shady areas. In addition to food scraps around your home or garden, these ants also eat seeds and other vegetation. They are especially fond of aphids on plants and sap from trees that humans might find attractive as well. 

Carpenter ants (Camponotus spp.) are large black or brown insects with a body length up to 1/2 inch long. These ants build their nests inside wood that has already been damaged by insects like termites; though some carpenter ants live outside in logs or tree stumps, most prefer the safety of existing structures where they can find food year-round without having to venture far from their nest—which means they are likely to be found around your summer cookout! 

What Attracts Ants? 

There are many factors that attract ants, but at their most basic level, ants need food and water! Ants feed on almost anything, but are particularly fond of sweets, grease, and fruits, all foods commonly found at a summer barbecue. And, just like us humans, ants also need water to survive! 

How to Prevent Ants Before They Become a Problem 

• Keep food covered. Ants are attracted to sweet and fatty foods, so if you want to avoid a swarm of ants in your yard, keep all your picnic items covered at all times. 
• Keep food in the fridge. Ants are also attracted to starchy or sugary foods that have been out for more than an hour or two, so never leave plates of chips on the table when you’re outside; instead, put them away after each snack break and enjoy them later when they are cold! 

• Clean up spills immediately. Ants will find spilled soda or other sugary drinks a source of nutrition as well as water—and they are not shy about drinking from puddles underneath parked cars either! Make sure everyone knows how important it is not only for their safety but also for our ant prevention strategy that any spillage gets cleaned up right away with plenty of soap and water. 
• Keep garbage cans covered tightly with lids. 

Dealing With Ants? We Will Knock Them Out for You! 

Ants can be a huge nuisance when they show up at your summer cookout, which is why it is best to knock ‘em out before they even become a problem with a regular, year-round pest control service. 

If you have questions about how to prevent ants at your summer cookout or just want some more information on our services, give us a call today at 1-800-244-PEST!