We all know how hot the summer season can get, especially in the dry heat of Arizona. While we can use our homes as cooler, more comfortable resting places, the armies of ants outside don’t have their own place to go. This is why they try to join us in our well-decorated, air-conditioned places of living. However, if they aren’t willing to chip in for rent or lend a hand with the housekeeping, they need to go.
The experts at Burns Pest Elimination are here to help keep your home protected from ants and the many hazards they can present. Keep reading to learn some tips on how to get rid of ants in Arizona and keep them outside where they belong.
What Attracts the Troops?
Ants are attracted to a variety of things that are common to most households. While their preferences can vary depending on the species and environmental conditions, these items will tend to bring the troops in:
- Food: Ants love sweet substances like honey and syrup along with protein-rich foods like meat and peanut butter.
- Sugar: Again, ants really love sugar, so make sure to avoid any spills or leftovers of sugary items when fighting an ant invasion.
- Crumbs: Tiny leftovers that we overlook can be a feast for ants.
- Moisture: Many ant species are attracted to moisture, especially in dry environments like Arizona.
- Shelter: Ants seek shelter in safe and cozy places—cracks in walls and gaps in door frames can draw them indoors.
Arizona Carpenter Ants
Carpenter ants are a very common species in Arizona, known for creating tunnels and nests within wood for shelter. These ants are relatively large, ranging from 1/4 to 1/2 inch in length. They like to feed on sugary substances like honey and syrup, or protein-rich foods like meat.
If you find small openings in wooden structures and sawdust-like material around your home, you may be dealing with a carpenter ant infestation. To prevent and control carpenter ants, you should address any moisture problems, repair water leaks, and seal any cracks or gaps that could serve as an entry point for the ants.
As with any pest infestation, consulting with local pest control experts like the ones at Burns Pest Elimination is crucial for effective control of ants. Give us a call today to set up your initial inspection! We pride ourselves on fast response times and exceptional customer service.
Arizona Fire Ants
While carpenter ants might be annoying to have around, they’re at least mostly harmless. Fire ants, on the other hand, are aggressive stinging ants known for their venomous bites. These ants are very common in warm climates—such as Arizona—and extremely protective of their nests, swarming aggressively when their nests are disturbed. A sting from a fire ant is painful and can cause a burning sensation, hence the “fire” of it all.
Managing fire ant infestations can be a challenge due to their large colony size and aggressive nature. However, you can reduce the chances of an infestation occurring by keeping areas tidy, avoiding leaving food exposed, and sealing cracks or gaps in buildings. If you want a sure-fire way to get rid of fire ants (see what we did there?) then you should seek professional help from Burns Pest Elimination. Our expert technicians are experienced in handling these ants safely and effectively.
Arizona Ant Elimination
Now that we’ve covered all the different kinds of ants and their differing behaviors, who’s ready to get rid of them? Here are a few best practices in getting rid of an ant infestation in your home:
- Identify the ant species. Different species of ants have different behaviors and preferences, in understanding their habits you can create a more effective elimination strategy.
- Keep your living spaces clean. Ants are attracted to food and water sources, so make sure your kitchen and dining areas are free from crumbs, spills, and food leftovers.
- Seal entry points. Check for cracks, gaps, and holes in your walls, doors, and windows. Seal these entry points to keep ants from entering your home.
- Use ant baits. Ant baits are an effective way to control ant colonies, as they carry the bait back to their nest it can help to eliminate the entire colony.
- Try natural remedies. Some natural substances can deter ants, like cinnamon, vinegar, peppermint oil, or citrus peels.
If your ant infestation is severe and persistent or if you find yourself dealing with a more aggressive species, you should bring in a professional pest control service. At Burns Pest Elimination, we offer pest control and removal services for Arizona businesses, families, and more. With decades of experience in controlling pests in Arizona, you can trust us to treat your pest problems with the care and attention you deserve. Give us a call or contact us online to learn more about how we can help with your ant infestation.
