Ants
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Ant Control
There are more than 12,400 known species of ants. They differ greatly in the way that they construct their nests, form their colonies, and obtain their food. Most ants are beneficial, scavenging on waste material and eating other insects. Some however, become pests when they invade human houses and need to be controlled.
Two common problem species are pharaoh ants and black garden ants.
The Pharaoh Ant
The pharaoh ant is one such species which once introduced into premises can be extremely troublesome and difficult to remove. Pharaoh ants infest hospitals, feeding on blood, intravenous liquids, bodily excretions, and sterile and soiled dressings.
HOW TO TREAT THE PHARAOH ANT
The control of pharaoh ants is difficult due to their highly developed social structure and the inaccessibility of their nests. An initial survey will be conducted to determine the level of infestation.
Once the extent has been determined, insecticidal bait or insect growth regulators can be applied to the perimeter of the infested area, progressing carefully inwards until the whole area has been treated. Further monitoring may be necessary.
THE BLACK GARDEN ANT
The black garden ant is another species which, although generally found outdoors, can enter buildings in search of food. Black ants mass round sweet foods in the home and are a nuisance outside too.
HOW TO TREAT THE BLACK GARDEN ANT
Black garden ants, whilst posing no major threat to humans, can be a nuisance if they enter the home. Control can only be achieved by the destruction of the nests which entails applying insecticide in and around the nest ensuring that insecticide is present at important points such as doors, windows, vents, ducts, and drains. Particular attention is given to cracks and crevices. The nest locations can usually be found by following ant trails.