Pavement ants feeding.

Close-up of pavement ants feeding.

Ant hill on sidewalk.

Ants are one of the most successful groups of insects. They are social insects that live in colonies which are usually located outside, but may enter buildings for shelter and/or food. Ants feed on practically every kind of food but those entering homes are often looking for sweets and/or protein-containing substances.

Ants of concern in homes include pavement ants, thief ants, little black ants and carpenter ants.

Questions & Answers

What does a pavement ant look like and where does it live?

The pavement ant is 3 mm to 4 mm long and is brown to black in colour. Its head and thorax exhibit fine parallel lines.

What do pavement ants eat and where do they live?

They nest in soil beneath slab and between walls. They prefer to eat grease and oils but will eat insects and sweet materials.

What does a thief ant look like and where does it live?

A thief ant is 1 to 1.5 mm long and is a shiny yellow to brown colour. They live in large colonies under ground, in rotting wood and near foundation walls. They prefer to eat protein- base food and will not eat sugar.

What does a little black ant look like and where does it live?

This type of ant is 1.5 mm long and is dark to black. They live in soil, rotted wood or behind baseboards.

What do little black ants eat?

They eat insects. honeydew, grease, vegetables and fruit.

When are ants most common?

During warm weather ants can be seen outdoors. Swarms of ants (reproductive) are commonly seen in June or July. If you see ants inside your home during winter months, a pest control expert should be contacted.

Are ants hazardous to humans?

Yes. Since ants are attracted to foods such as honey, fruit and meat they can carry disease germs from one area to another.

What can I do to prevent an infestation of ants?

Good housekeeping practices such as keeping foods in sealed containers and areas free of spillage and crumbs will prevent ants, as will sealing of openings where ants may enter from outside.

If I have an infestation of ants, what can I do to eliminate them?

Your local Abell Pest Control office has products developed for the control of ants. Depending on the severity of the infestation, a single control measure may not be effective and an integrated program conducted by an Abell service technician will be required.

Preparation Guidelines for an Ant Treatment

1. In order to achieve control, it may be necessary to treat all rooms of the home as well as outside. In areas where ants are seen and in particular the kitchen, empty bottom cupboards and the bottom of closets. Dishes and food should be kept out of the way.
2. If ants are seen in the washroom, the vanity should be emptied.
3. The Abell Service Technician will determine the most appropriate pest control material to be used. Liquid sprays, dusts and/or bait stations may be used. The bait station should be left where the technician places it.
4. Vacate the premises during service and do not re-enter until at least 4 hours after treatment. Persons with underlying health conditions should consult their family physician where they have concerns regarding re-entry. Open windows for 20 to 30 minutes after re-entry is possible.

If you require professional ant extermination or control, please send us your information and we will be happy to help!