Thief ants are one of the smallest of household ant species, and they get their name from their clever habit of nesting near other ants’ nests, so they can rob them of food and their young. If you have other ant species nesting in your New Caney, TX yard, there’s a good chance that Thief ants will show up at some point!
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.
Thief Ants (Solenopsis molesta)
Thief ants are often confused with Pharaoh ants, though they are a little bit smaller, measuring only about 1/20″ to 1/10″ in length. They are usually a pale yellowish to light brownish-red in color, and have an unusual, uneven appearance. They can be found throughout most of the United States, though they are more prominent in eastern U.S. states.
Thief ant colonies are usually smaller in size than those of other ants, but they can house several queens and several thousand workers. Thief ants are grouped in with other “Sugar ants” and “Grease ants,” because of their love for these foods.
How to Get Rid of Pyramid Ants on My 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 Thief ants (and other ants) out.
Try the following tips to help you get rid of ants in your home.
- 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.).
- 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.
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.
Don’t let ant infestations ruin your summer fun! Even with all your best preventive measures, you may still find yourself dealing with ant infestations (or problems with other pests) occasionally. Call our New Caney, TX pest control experts today at 832-898-0190 and we can help you save all sorts of money, stress, and time. Don’t miss out on grilling with your family and friends!
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