Most of us here in Akron are no strangers to pavement ants out on the sidewalks, but do you know what to do when you find them crawling across your floors and countertops? Pavement ants in Akron can be challenging to eliminate on your own, but we are ready to step in with effective home pest solutions so that you can take back your property.
What Are Pavement Ants?
Pavement ants get their name because they nest under the pavement. They are well-adapted to urban and suburban habitats and are among the most common ant species in North America. They are dark brown to black and ⅛ inch long. The workers of the colony have a small stinger which can cause mild discomfort to humans. Drones and queen ants are winged and are about twice as large as the worker ants.
You typically find pavement ants under foundations, sidewalks, and patios because they build their nests underground and have adapted to a more urban lifestyle. You can usually spot these nests by the entrance holes atop small mounds of dirt or sand. These ant colonies are made up of nearly 10,000 worker ants and one queen. They will defend a territory of approximately 43 meters.
Are Pavement Ants Dangerous?
Although the worker ants have stingers, pavement ants aren't a danger to us or our properties. They can contaminate any food that has been left out, but they are more of a nuisance than a threat. Pavement ants do not pose a public health risk.
Tips To Prevent Pavement Ant Infestations
Pavement ants, like most pests, are attracted to moisture and food. They will eat nearly anything, so the best ways to prevent an infestation are to control moisture and food sources.
- Eliminate any standing water near your property.
- Keep any potential food sources cleaned up and sealed in airtight containers.
- Keep tree branches and plants well-groomed and trimmed back so that the ant can not use them to climb inside buildings.
- Inspect the exterior of your buildings and seal any holes or cracks to eliminate entry points.
- Keep firewood and building materials stored away from your home because these are other places they like to nest.
Pavement ants can be difficult to eliminate because their colonies are so large, and they dig their nests deep underground. This makes it challenging to destroy the nest at the source and control the infestation. If your Akron property is experiencing a problem with pavement ants, it's best to reach out to the professionals.
How Epcon Lane Can Solve Your Ant Problem
Our pest management professionals at Epcon have the training, experience, and knowledge to treat all your pest management needs with your family's best interests in mind. We use a proven Integrated Pest Management plan to identify problems and come up with customized treatment options that best suit your needs. Since the beginning, we have been committed to excellence, and it is our priority to serve our customers well with affordable, year-round pest control for your business or home. Whether you're looking for one-time or recurring pest control options, we have a solution for you.
Contact us at Epcon Lane today to learn more about the services we offer to keep your Akron property protected from pavement ants and other unwanted pests.