Ever look at an ant and think to yourself, “That little bug is probably dangerous.”? Most people don’t think much about ants when they see them crawling around their home besides wondering how they got inside and what they should do to get them back out. What they should be wondering, however, is if the ants in their home are Pharaoh ants, because if they are, sickness could be right around the corner. To help you identify and deter Pharaoh ants around your Dallas property, there are some things you should know.
What Are Pharaoh Ants?
Dallas is home to dozens of ant species, one of which is known as the Pharaoh ant. Identify one of these 1/16” long insects by its yellowish color and the red and black markings on its abdomen. Do not, however, confuse this pest for a thief ant which is the same size but darker with a more red tone.
Why Pharaoh Ants Invade Homes
Pharaoh ant scouts are constantly looking for sources of food to gather. This often leads them into homes through gaps, cracks, and other openings. Once inside, scouts investigate floors, countertops, and living areas for scraps, sugary beverages, and other things to feed their colony. If food is found, scouts return to their colony, leaving a pheromone trail behind to lead workers back to the source. This is what leads to the infamous lines of ants running across your home’s floors, countertops, and tables.
The Dangers Of Pharaoh Ants
Hospitals concern themselves with keeping Pharaoh ants away. That should tell you something about how dangerous these pests are. Pharaoh ants can pick up, carry, and transmit disease-causing organisms. These sickness vectors are often transferred onto or into this pest’s body while it crawls through trash or over rotting or decaying organisms. Two common diseases you might get from a Pharaoh ant are staphylococcus and salmonellosis.
How Homeowners Effectively Prevent Pharaoh Ants
Before we talk about preventing Pharaoh ants, you should know that preventing any pest is a long, difficult, and work-intensive task. If you are up for the challenge, we have some tips for you to try. Here is how to deter Pharaoh ants from entering your home.
Eliminate sources of water build up around your property.
Address problems with your home’s gutters.
Fix leaky piping and fixtures.
Keep your lawn and landscaping well-trimmed.
Identify and seal up gaps, cracks, and holes in your home’s exterior foundation and around window/door frames.
Repair or replace damaged window/door frames.
Make sure all of your exterior doors are equipped with door sweeps.
Sweep your floors and vacuum your carpets regularly.
Wash off countertops and kitchen tables after every meal.
Pick up food messes and drink spills as they happen around your home.
Avoid feeding your pets outdoors and clean out their bowls after every meal.
Be careful not to leave leftovers or other food out on countertops but instead store them away inside airtight containers.
A Much Easier Way To Control Pharaoh Ants
Unless performed perfectly, DIY prevention will not ensure Pharaoh ants stay out of your home. The only way to guarantee your protection against these potentially dangerous pests is to get a professional on the job. At Addison Pest Control, we offer long-term and effective solutions to pests like Pharaoh ants. There is no extra effort needed on your part, we will handle your pest problems for you.
Call us today to find out more about Pharaoh ants or to schedule your home for a detailed pest inspection.