Ants are not considered welcomed guests in anyone’s home. If you haven’t put proper precautions in place, you may be inadvertently inviting them into your Hudson Valley, NY, residence.

Ants

Ant colonies are a common problem for homeowners across the U.S. Attracting factors and accessible entry points encourage ant invasions in and around your home, and each species of ant will present different challenges and hazards to overcome.

Applying preventive measures will help keep the ants at bay. Better yet, team up with an experienced Hudson Valley residential ant control service to guarantee an ant-free home year-round.

Ant Identification

There are five ant species common to the Hudson Valley area. Most of them are fairly harmless, with the exception of one species. Familiarizing yourself with ant identification will help you determine what you are dealing with and how to resolve the issue. In general, ants are black or brown in color, with six legs, oval-shaped bodies, and two antennae.

Argentine ants average around 1/16 – ¼ of an inch in length. Argentine ants are not considered dangerous, but they are known for their massive colonies.

Carpenter ants average around 1/8 – ½ of an inch in length. Carpenter ants can be quite destructive, coming in second only to termites in terms of the structural destruction they are capable of and the safety hazards they create.

Little black ants average around 1/16 of an inch in length. Little black ants are one of the most common species invading U.S. homes and are more of a nuisance than anything else.

Odorous house ants average around 1/8 of an inch in length. Odorous house ants are not dangerous, but they are well-known for the foul odor they emit when crushed or stepped on.

Pavement ants average around 1/8 of an inch in length, with queens that can grow significantly larger. Pavement ants commonly invade urban and suburban homes and do not pose any significant threat to humans.

Behavioral Complications

No matter what species of ant you are dealing with, they are all problematic. Ants spread bacteria and contaminate any food or surfaces they come into contact with.

Indoors, ants are extremely difficult to locate and remove. They build their nests in inaccessible locations underneath the flooring, between walls, inside insulation, and on or in interior structural beams. Some species disperse and relocate their colonies when their nesting site has been disturbed. Ants also rapidly reproduce. The sheer number of ants within a colony makes eradication next to impossible for homeowners to treat on their own.

When it comes to ant infestations, prevention is crucial. It is the only way to protect your Hudson Valley home from unwanted ants.

Attracting Factors, Entry Points, And Prevention Tips

In order to prevent ants, it is important to know what attracts them into homes and how they are getting in. Here are four helpful tips to assist you in your preventative measure efforts:

Ants are attracted to food sources. Store pantry items in sealed containers. Regularly wipe down food prep surfaces and dining areas. Sweep and vacuum when necessary. Store pet food in sealed containers.
Ants are attracted to moisture as well. Repair any leaky pipes or faucets in and around your home. Regularly clean gutters and make sure they are in good working order. Use fans and dehumidifiers in moisture-prone areas.
The most common entry points for ants are cracks and crevices found in the foundation or exterior walls of a home. Thoroughly inspect these areas. Seal up every crack you can find.
Ants will find their way in through open doors and windows. Install or repair door sweeps, weather stripping, and screens on your doors and windows. Keep doors and windows closed if they do not have a screen.

Teaming up with a licensed professional is the only way to ensure an ant-free home. They are the ones with tried and true solutions to your ant problems.

The Most Effective Form Of Ant Control

Hudson Valley Pestmaster® Services is locally owned and operated by a certified entomologist and a NY firefighter. We value our community and serve our customers with great pride. With more than 33 years of experience in the pest control industry, Hudson Valley Pestmaster® Services strives to provide the most effective and eco-friendly services the area has to offer. Our treatments are designed with the health and safety of your loved ones in mind.

As a Hudson Valley Pestmaster® Services customer, you will receive a customized treatment plan based on your individual needs. We offer a wide range of comprehensive services, sustainable solutions, and long-lasting results.

You're in good hands with the trusted experts of Hudson Valley Pestmaster® Services. Contact us today to schedule your free inspection!