As you have probably noticed, the Tallahassee area is home to a variety of ants. The ones that Florida homeowners encounter most often are commonly known as acrobat, Argentine, big-headed, carpenter, Caribbean, crazy, fire (native and imported), ghost, pyramid, rover, thief or white-footed ants. Although each species of ant shares some similarities as far as nesting habits and food preferences, there are also differences. Knowing the habits of each type of ant is crucial to eliminating the ants.
Some types of ants are content to remain outdoors, but others prefer to invade your home. Indoors or out, ant stings can be quite painful, especially if multiple bites occur — which is often the case with fire ants. The ant hills on your lawn can be unsightly and more than a minor nuisance if you have pets or small children. Indoors, ants can invade the foods in your pantry, and although ants do not eat wood, some species like to build nests in decaying wood. If they choose to nest in your floor, walls or attic, you might notice a distinct odor if the infestation is severe.
Ants are sometimes mistaken for termites, especially when the ants are reproductive who still have their wings. However, ants have a much narrower “waist” than termites and their antennae are bent, not straight like a termite’s. Winged ants have two pair of wings of different sizes, but all four of a termite’s wings are approximately equal in size.
Identifying the exact ant species that has invaded a home or lawn can be difficult for the average homeowner, but it is a simple matter for the trained technicians at PestLoco Termite and Pest Control . Our technicians also know which baits work best for each ant during each season as preferences can change with temperature, brooding conditions and rainfall. Depending on your situation and species of ant, other treatment methods might be preferred over baiting, but our technicians are knowledgeable about all methods. PestLoco Termite and Pest Control techs can advise on how to help prevent the return of these pests as well. If you would like to learn how to prevent or eliminate your ant problems, contact PestLoco Termite and Pest Control today for a free, no-obligation quote.