Most ants look very similar, but identifying different species is essential in successfully controlling them. Knowing which type of ant is causing problems on your property allows you to take advantage of some of their traits and behaviors to get rid of them. Welcome to “Ant Identification 101”, where we explore more about the common ants in our area and the best ways to control them.
This article will explain how to identify ants by their physical characteristics. We’ll also examine specific ant behaviors, including why they walk in trails, their foraging patterns, and how seasonal variations affect their activity. Continue reading to learn more about these insects and when to seek professional assistance with ant control in Coral Springs with the experts from GOTBUGSIKILL.
Physical Characteristics: How To Identify Ants
Florida has over 200 types of ants, and we can all be thankful that most don’t cause homeowners problems. The following list includes descriptions of the most common ants that invade Coral Springs houses:
Carpenter ants are between 1/2 and 5/8 of an inch long and can be red, black, brown, or a combination of red and black.
Pharaoh ants are 1/16 of an inch long and pale yellow or reddish with a darker abdomen.
Crazy ants are less than 1/8 of an inch long, dark brown to black with a gray sheen, and have long legs and antennae.
Big-headed ants are between 1/16 and 1/8 of an inch long, reddish-brown, and have large heads in proportion to their body size.
White-footed ants are 1/8 of an inch long and have black or brown bodies with yellowish-white feet.
Ghost ants are 1/16 of an inch long and dark brown, with pale yellow abdomens and legs.
If you need assistance identifying or eliminating the ants in your home, the experts at GOTBUGSIKILL are here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our ant control services or to schedule a free inspection.
Understanding Ant Trails And Foraging Patterns
Ants are excellent communicators who relay vital information to the other ants in their colony through chemicals called pheromones. Their pheromones can signal a pathway to a food source, an alarm when there is danger, and allow them to recognize their nest mates. When you see ants that appear to be roaming around in unorganized patterns, they are most likely foraging.
A foraging ant will create a meandering path until it discovers food. It will then feed on the food and take a straight path directly back to the nest, laying down an odor trail for the other ants to follow. These trails can help determine the nest location, how they get inside your home, and the food source that attracts them, aiding in future ant prevention.
If you see long trails of ants going in and out of your house, the pros at GOTBUGSIKILL can help you determine the most effective way to eliminate them. Contact us today to learn more about our ant control solutions or to schedule your free inspection.
Seasonal Variations In Ant Activity In Coral Springs
The climate in Coral Springs allows ants to be active year-round, but certain weather conditions and seasonal changes can alter their behavior. Here are some seasonal variations that can increase the chances of an ant infestation in your home:
Between April and June, carpenter ants will swarm, and you may see flying ants in or around your home looking to start a new colony.
From mid-May through October, ants may seek higher ground or shelter inside homes during the rainy season.
January tends to be the driest month and can send ants seeking water into houses.
Summer temperatures over 95? can cause ants to search for cooler shelter in our climate-controlled homes.
No matter what season, if ants find a way into your house, it is essential to eliminate them as soon as possible. Contact us today at GOTBUGSIKILL to learn how we can help you get rid of ants and keep them away.
When To Seek Professional Ant Control Services
Ants’ exceptional communication skills explain how just one ant can quickly become a severe infestation. The best time to contact a company that offers professional ant pest control services is at the first sign of these insects. Call us today at GOTBUGSIKILL to learn more about our comprehensive ant control services or to schedule a free inspection.
