Pharaoh ants can be seen crawling out of bathtubs, wall switch plates, along kitchen sinks… they seem to come from just about everywhere, and they can make a nuisance of themselves in your Kingwood, TX home.
Generally speaking, ants are among the most hearty, resilient, and adaptable insects around, and most species can be difficult to get rid of once they’re indoors. It’s a good idea to know what type of ants you’re dealing with to help you in managing them.
Pharaoh Ants (Monomorium pharaonis)
Pharaoh ants are considered “tramp ants” and are known to cause problems in homes, hospitals, and other medical facilities. About one in every six ant species are known as tramp ants (usually small species, that build multiple colonies, and can feed on various different food sources), such as Argentine ants , Crazy ants , Odorous House ants , White-footed ants , Big Headed ants , and Rover ants. Fire ants are also considered to be tramp ants, though they don’t usually infest homes and other structures.
Pharoah ants are among the smaller ant species, only measuring between 1/16″ AND 1/8″ in length, and they are typically light brown to reddish in color, with dark hind ends. They look similar to Thief ants, but without the two clubs on their antennae.
How Do I Get Rid of Pharoah Ants on My Kingwood Property?
As with trying to prevent other ant and insect invader pest species, keeping your lawn well mowed and the interior of your home wiped down and clean is a major key to keeping Pharoah ants out. No matter how clean your home is, keep in mind that ants can show up in even the cleanest of homes. Try the following tips to help you get rid of Pharaoh ants in your home.
- Promptly wipe up food and beverage spills, keep your sink free of empty dishes, and sweep and mop regularly in your kitchen. Make sure all leaks indoors and outdoors are repaired.
- Seal up cracks and crevices in the baseboards, doors, and windows. Screen off pipe and utility entry points.
- Keep firewood and mulch at least 20 feet away from your home, and clear your yard of debris.
- Trim your shrubs and trees at least an inch or two away from the side of your home.
- Mow your lawn regularly and keep it clear of lawn clutter (logs, branches, stumps, leaf piles, etc.).
Must Read:DEAD SPOT ON YOUR KINGWOOD LAWN
As with other ant species, baiting is the most consistently reliable and long-term way to eliminate entire colonies instead of spraying with a conventional repellent residual spray. But you can spot treat for ants with a good spray, just don’t spray where you’ve put down bait, or the ants won’t come anywhere near the bait like you want them to. You can also spray your yard with a good yard bug spray. Be patient! Depending on the colony size, it could take from a few days to a few weeks to eliminate it entirely. Insect Growth Regulator ant control products can also be effective. Always follow label directions.
Pharaoh ants are likely to make an appearance on your property or even in your home at some point. Even with all your best preventive measures, you may still find yourself dealing with ant infestations (or problems with other pests) from time to time. Do you really want to spend your summer and fall months chasing after ants, or would you rather spend them grilling? Call our Kingwood, TX pest control experts today at 832-898-0190 and we can help you save all sorts of money, stress, and time. Keep your weekends free for grilling.
