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Ant Characteristics And Behavior – Pest Control Management
The ant is a member of the Formicidae insect family, which belongs to the Hymenoptera order. The wasp, bee, sawfly, and ant make up the order of Hymenoptera. The Formicidae family is highly known for its “social” behaviors, such as living and traveling in colonies, building nests, feeding aggregation, and work habits. Two words oftentimes utilized to describe the ant species is “hard-working.” It is true, ants spend the majority of their waking hour performing duties, which are unique for each member. For example, the worker ant has various responsibilities – erecting tunnels, creating nests, and foraging for food – all of which play a vital role in the survival of the colony.
Another important member of the ant species is the soldier. This member plays the biggest role in keeping the colony safe. The main duty of the soldier ant is to protect the queen, followed by the colony. Soldier ants also participate in enemy attacks. While the worker ant forages for food, the soldier ant is busy killing other insects for food. The termite is just one example.
Why Has My Home Come Under Attack By An Ant Colony?
Ants are what many refer to as an “opportunist” insect. They take advantage of every available opportunity to score some food. Most homes have an abundance of food, whether the family knows it or not. Ants are curious insects, if there is no barrier to stop them, they will go for it every time. When colonies grow to a significant size, food can sometimes be scarce, this is especially true in preparation for the winter season. Ants figure if food is not available outdoors, they should venture indoors where food is plentiful. Homes with security vulnerabilities are the first to come under attack by ants. A security vulnerability could be something as tiny as a gap in a windowsill. While you are unaware of the vulnerability, ants are accessing it to enter your home, a continuous cycle for ant colonies. It becomes more obvious when the colony’s activity level is at its highest – during the breeding season and late fall in preparation for the upcoming winter season.
Do Ants Spread Foodborne Illnesses?
Yes, ants have been linked to foodborne illnesses, such as salmonella and Shigella. Although the ant species do not transmit diseases or parasites to humans, it is still a health threat for the impacted family. During an ant’s journey, it will frequent highly contaminated areas near sewage systems, garbage dumps, and stagnant water. In addition to the contaminated areas, the ant has been shown to feed on dead animal carcasses. During their journey, the ant will unknowingly pick up contaminated bits and pieces, carrying them all the way back to their colony. Some of the contaminants will end up on your countertop and possibly food supply, which is where foodborne illnesses come into play.
What Is The Best Pest Management Approach To An Ant Infestation?
We strongly believe the best approach is professional extermination or pest control. Pest extermination is a process that utilizes insecticides, pesticides, traps, and eco-friendly techniques to wipe out whole groups of insects, rodents, arthropods, and aphids. Our professional-grade pest control targets specific insect species, such as the ant. All of this is possible while protecting the environment and humans from exposure to harmful chemicals associated with the pest control industry. Our pest management products and methods are EPA-approved.
The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) established guidelines designed to protect the environment and humans from potential exposure to chemicals found in pesticides. Manufacturers are required by EPA guidelines to submit a sample of their pest control products to the agency for analysis. The samples are assessed to determine what PFAS if any are present. The data collected from these assessments are available to American consumers via the EPA’s official website.
Can I Try A DIY Pesticide Approach When Dealing With Ants?
Sure, why not? Generally, over-the-counter pesticides are readily available via brick-and-mortar big-box, retail, home & garden, and hardware stores. Most consumers opt for DIY pesticides for this very reason. But, does it mean, DIY is the best option? Not necessarily, but doing something is better than doing nothing, in this case. If you do not achieve a satisfactory outcome, do not hesitate to reach out to our local exterminators. We will work with you to develop a budget-friendly pest control strategy that is guaranteed to deliver a desirable outcome, which is nothing short of full ant extermination.
How Do I Schedule A Pest Control Inspection?
While the easiest step of the extermination process, many consumers refuse to move past the infestation discovery phase. Our pest control inspection service is available for free of charge per appointment-only. There are several ways to request an in-home ant control inspection. You can do it over the phone, email, live chat, or text. We only need 24 to 48 hours to prepare for the inspection.
How Do I Protect My Home From A Repeat Ant Infestation?
It is a fact, an ant infiltration will leave your home vulnerable in more ways than one. At this point, the home has exhausted all of its resources, creating a dire situation for everyone involved. Repeat infestations are more common than you think. Staying off the ant radar in the future will require a solid pest management solution, one that targets the home’s vulnerabilities and family’s inappropriate trash disposal and food storage systems. Call us today to learn more!
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