Why Are There Ants In My Jacksonville Home And How Do I Get Them Out?

How Can I Tell What Type Of Ants Are In My House?

Although ants share some common characteristics, many species have unique appearances and may pose different types of risks. Some of the most common ant species in the area include:  

• Carpenter ants: With a bicolored appearance and larger body, several carpenter ant species exist in Florida. Aptly named, carpenter ants use their powerful jaws to burrow into wooden structures, which may result in costly property damage. 
• Pharaoh Ants: Although they measure less than 1/8 of an inch long, Pharoah ant invasions often become unmanageable as these pests will quickly form multiple new colonies. 
• Ghost ants: With an off-white or translucent body measuring only 1/16 of an inch with a darker head, ghost ants thrive in many areas of Florida. 
• Fire ants: Usually appearing reddish-brown, fire ants form mounds in yard areas and will sting when defending their nest.

Keep in mind that the aforementioned species represent merely a fraction of the number of types of ants that exist. Data indicates that more than 12,000 species exist worldwide, and over 200 kinds are found here in Florida.

Is It Dangerous To Have Ants In My House?

Ants might carry various germs that contaminate surfaces and food sources. Ants are often associated with E.coli infection, salmonellosis, and other possible health risks.

Can ants bite humans? Ants might bite humans when they feel threatened; however, most ant bites result in only mild redness or irritation. Despite their small size, fire ants are often aggressive and will attack humans or animals in droves delivering painful stings.

Why Do I Have An Ant Infestation In My Home?

Ants commonly exist in outdoor environments near humans. As scavengers, ants will often initially target homes in residential areas with attractants around the exterior of the property. For example, ants will enter yards containing remnants such as food scraps and packaging materials left scattered following barbeques.

As ants travel around the exterior areas of a structure, they will often enter homes using their tiny bodies to navigate small openings. As omnivores, ants enjoy most of the same foods that humans consume—particularly sweets, greasy foods, or proteins. For this reason, homeowners should adopt regular cleaning habits that involve sweeping crumbs off of floors and wiping up spills on countertops completely.

What's The Most Effective Way To Get Rid Of Ants?

How do you get rid of ants that invade homes in Jacksonville? In most cases, homeowners should contact a local pest control company regarding the best treatment options for ant infestations. Properly qualified professionals will safely oust ants from the premises and know the best ways how to keep ants away from the property.

The Lindsey Pest Services experts know the most effective ways of treating ant infestations. In addition to ants, we assist customers facing intrusions involving bed bugs, mosquitoes, termites, and many others.  

We also embrace many of the latest products and application methods that emerge in the realm of professional home pest control. Our technicians use many of the options recommended by the Florida Pest Management Association (F.P.M.A.), a statewide organization, and the National Pest Management Association (N.P.M.A.).

For additional information, please contact our office today.