Preventing Common Ants in North Carolina
During the warmer months of the year, North Carolina residents will see an influx of several household pests, including the pesky ant! There are a wide variety of ant species many homeowners will face, all of which can become a nuisance if they’ve invaded our homes. Check out the most common ants in North Carolina and how to prevent them!
Common Ants in North Carolina:
- Argentine Ants: These ants are small with brown bodies. Commonly found in kitchens and bathrooms, these ants are known to be attracted to sweet foods and can quickly become a problem if left unchecked.
- Odorous House Ants: One of the most common ant species we often encounter, these ants get their name from the unpleasant odor they give off when crushed. These ants are attracted to sweet and greasy foods and can quickly become a problem if they’ve found food in your kitchens and pantries.
- Carpenter Ants: These ants are larger than other ant species and are black or dark brown. They are known for their ability to cause structural damage to wooden structures, often creating damage to our fences or decks.
- Fire Ants: With reddish-brown bodies, these ants are known to have a painful sting, often causing allergic reactions. You’ll most likely see these ants in our lawns and gardens, building their nest in open, sunny areas. If they’ve invaded your yard, they can quickly become a problem, especially if their nests are disturbed.
Preventing North Carolina Ants:
To prevent and deter ants from invading your home, check out our ant control measures you can place:
- Keep Your Kitchen Clean: Ants are attracted to food, so keeping your kitchen clean and free of crumbs and spills is essential. Wipe down countertops, sweep floors, and keep food in sealed containers. Likewise, make sure to regularly take out the trash and place it in trash bins with secure lids.
- Seal Up Cracks and Gaps: Ants are extremely small and can easily find their way into your home through open cracks and gaps. Inspect your home for any of these openings and seal them to prevent ants from entering. Check around windows, doors, and pipes for these openings.
- Keep Your Yard Clean: Maintaining your yard can make a major difference in deterring ants from building their nests on your property. Keep your yard clean and free of debris that ants could use as shelter to make it less attractive to them.
- Store Firewood Away from Your Home: Carpenter ants are attracted to wood, creating their nest by excavating it. Keeping firewood and other wood materials away from your home can help prevent them from invading. Place this wood at least 20 feet away from your home and elevate it off the ground.
By taking the above steps, you can help prevent ants from invading your home and becoming a nuisance. If you have a serious ant infestation or would like to get ahead of prevention, consider contacting your local pest control professional for assistance.