Ants are a troublesome type of insect belonging to the Formicidae family found in most parts of the world in an estimated 12,000 different species. In nature, various ant species help the environment in ways including dispersing seeds, helping with breaking down forms of decayed vegetation and aerating the soil. Ants are also a common pest encountered by those cooking or consuming food in outdoor settings such as picnics or barbeques.
One problematic species commonly seen in this region is Pharaoh ants (Monomorium Pharaonis). Pharaoh ants are tiny, only measuring one to two millimeters, and have six legs and segmented antennae.
Pharaoh ants form colonies with multiple queens that they sometimes relocate when needed. After mating, Pharoah ants originate as an egg and reach adulthood in approximately five weeks. Typically, females have the longest life span, often reaching 12 months.
Researchers believe that Pharaoh ants originated in tropical climates due to their struggles in surviving colder conditions; therefore, they will seek refuge indoors during cooler periods.
What do pharaoh ants eat? Pharaoh ants will consume the majority of foods, including plant-based materials, sweets, and other insects. Once indoors, these creatures will gravitate toward baked goods, proteins, and sweet liquids.
Is your home infested with Pharoah ants? Property owners should promptly speak with a Del Rio pest control professional for assistance.
Local experts recognize how to get rid of pharaoh ants in the house and many of the best preventative measures that reduce the likelihood of experiencing subsequent infestations.
In responding to these bothersome pests, many property owners try store-bought options promoted by retailers with highly embellished marketing claims, such as being a “simple and easy solution” for expelling ants. Unfortunately, many of these aerosol sprays, granular formulations, or traps produce underwhelming results that prove insufficient against larger, well-developed ant infestations.
What Pharaoh Ants Look Like
Are you wondering what pharaoh ants look like? Rarely exceeding two millimeters, Pharaoh ant sizes are among the smallest of most ant species. The body’s exterior usually appears yellow or tan with red or black markings on its underside.
A Pharaoh Ant Infestation In Your Home Can Cause Serious Problems
Are pharaoh ants dangerous? Pharaoh ants are unlikely to bite or sting humans but will infest food and potentially cause dysentery or salmonellosis. The species is most hazardous when entering medical facilities and spreading pathogens among vulnerable populations.
Five No-Nonsense Tips To Prevent Future Pharaoh Ant Infestation
Successfully preventing intrusions involving Pharaoh ants is often challenging, as these tiny creatures will enter through small openings.
Some of the best practices for ant prevention include:
- Inspect the exterior of the structure near the base and apply caulk or sealant to fill any cracks or crevices.
- Install sweeps along exterior doors and repair damaged window screens.
- Regularly clean kitchen areas by sweeping up crumbs, wiping counters, and placing any leftovers in the refrigerator or sealed containers
- Trash bags in kitchen areas that contain food scraps will likely attract these creatures and should remain in durable garbage receptacles with functional lids that limit access.
- Limit water sources by repairing leaks and ensuring crawlspaces are properly ventilated.
Pharaoh ants adapt well once indoors; therefore, limiting access points and reducing attractants are critically important tasks.
Professional Pest Control Is The Best Way To Get Rid Of Pharaoh Ants
The team of pest control professionals with Gold Star Exterminators understands the best ways of safely treating infestations involving Pharaoh ants in Del Rio and other similar ant species. Our customers appreciate our firm commitment to safety and how we always back the quality of our work with a satisfaction guarantee.