When you see ants in your house, chances are they’re on a mission. Ants sneak into homes for several reasons. If you know what’s causing ants to stop by, it will be easier to get them to leave. We’ve made a list of five reasons ants are likely to invade homes.
1. Ants Found Food
Food is one of the most common reasons why you’ll experience an ant problem. These pests enter homes looking for a meal. When foraging ants find a food source, they release pheromones that alert other ants to their location. Ants eat a variety of treats including sugar, grease, and proteins. Crumbs, spills, and sticky residues can attract ants to your home. To keep these pests away, keep your counters and floors free of food residue. Store food in containers, remove trash regularly, and wipe down jars and containers.
2. Ants Found Water
Moisture is another attractant of ants. Standing water in your yard can cause an outdoor ant problem, which can lead to an indoor infestation. Leaky pipes, faucets, and water build-up under sinks or near tiles can be problematic. Ants are more likely to head inside for moisture if the weather is hot or dry. Minimizing moisture indoors and outside can help to prevent ants. Fix leaks and remove sources of water.
3. Changes in Weather
Ants are cold-blooded, which means the weather affects their body temperature. When conditions outside become too hot or too cold, ants will move indoors. While ants need moisture, if their environment becomes too wet, they’ll head indoors. Heavy rainfall can cause their nests to flood. Ants will migrate to a safe location until their nest dries out. You can’t control the weather, but you can bug-proof your home to deter ants.
4. Ants Found a Way Inside
Ants view holes and gaps as an invitation to march into your house. Ants are tiny and can slip into the smallest of holes. Cracks near doors and windows and tears in screens are the perfect places for ants to enter. These pests will also sneak in where utility lines and wires enter the home. Take the time to examine your house for potential entry points. Sealing these spots will help to keep ants out of your space.
5. Vegetation
It’s nice having vegetation in your yard, but it can also attract ants. Ants feed on plant nectar as well as the honeydew secreted by plant pests like aphids. Shrubs, bushes, and plants also provide ants with hiding spots. If your vegetation touches the side of your house, it can act as a bridge that leads ants into your home. Keeping your plants, tree branches, and other vegetation trimmed can help to keep ants away. Make sure hungry plant pests aren’t bugging your plants and providing ants with a meal.
Identifying why ants have arrived is one of the first steps to eliminating an infestation. This will help you remove the attractant and begin the process of getting rid of these pests. If ants or other pests are giving you a fit, we have your back! For a more environmentally and family-friendly solution, check out our Maggie’s Farm Simply Effective™ Pest Control products.