Ants are a common household pest, but identifying the specific type of ant can be difficult. Understanding the different types of ants and their unique characteristics is important for effective pest control. In this blog, we will discuss four of the most common ant species found in Alberta homes: Pharaoh Ants, Carpenter Ants, Moisture Ants, and Formica Ants.
- Pharaoh Ants: These tiny, yellow to light brown ants are commonly found in warm, humid environments like hospitals and apartment buildings. They feed on a variety of foods, including sweets, proteins, and grease. Pharaoh ants are difficult to control because they have a large colony size and are able to split into smaller colonies, making extermination efforts less effective.
- Carpenter Ants: Carpenter ants are large, black or reddish-brown ants that can cause significant damage to wooden structures. They build their nests by tunneling into wood, making it important to identify and treat them quickly. Carpenter ants are most commonly found in damp or rotting wood, so proper moisture control is essential for preventing infestations.
- Moisture Ants: As their name suggests, moisture ants thrive in moist environments. They are small, brown or black ants and are often found in kitchens and bathrooms. They feed on sugary and greasy foods, as well as other insects. To prevent moisture ant infestations, it is important to eliminate sources of moisture and fix leaks.
- Formica Ants: Formica ants are large, dark brown or black ants that are commonly found in forests and meadows. While they do not typically infest homes, they may be attracted to outdoor areas where sugary or greasy foods are present. Formica ants can be controlled by removing food sources, sealing entry points, and treating nests with insecticide.
In conclusion, it’s important to properly identify the type of ant in your home in order to effectively control and eliminate the problem. If you are unsure of the type of ant in your home, you can give our team a call and we would be more than happy to help identify your pest at no charge. Understanding the different types of ants can help you make informed decisions about ant control and prevent future infestations.