ANTS

There are several species of Black Ants that cause problems to homeowners in Adelaide. Often they will establish nests in cavity walls or roof spaces and from there, infest living areas of homes.

Ants are social insects that live in colonies or nests. The nests may be located in soil near the house, in the garden, crawl-spaces, ceilings and walls, and under concrete slabs. Ants have three castes: queens, males and workers. Queens and males are the reproductive caste and workers are sterile females without wings. New nests are created by single queens that lay eggs and tend the larvae and pupae until the worker ants mature. Workers often shift the brood from place to place as moisture and temperature fluctuates in the nest. When workers forage for food and water they often enter the home and become a nuisance by just being present. Some species may also contaminate food.

Control

Ants rank as one of the most difficult pests to control. The most important step in ant control is to locate the nest and destroy it. Nests are often found in crack or crevice. A treatment may be applied at this point if the nest cannot be located. Dusts can be puffed into holes to cover wall and ceiling voids. The ants will be killed or carry the chemical back to the nest and kill others. Ants feed by regurgitating food to other ants. Baits can also be used in this way. Baits contain an attractive food substance and a small amount of chemical that does not kill the ant but allows it to return to the nest. To prevent ants from entering the house, a perimeter spray can be used. Sprays or dusts can be applied to the nest and around the opening.

Allstate Pest Control will inspect infested buildings, homes and yards, determine an appropriate treatment for the particular variety that are causing the problem and with the appropriate treatments, control any Black Ant problem. Often with black ant treatments a follow up service is recommended.

Call us now to arrange your Black Ant treatment or speak to a professional about any pest problem – 8371 1277