If you’ve had ants on your kitchen counter in Oceanside, there’s a high probability they were Argentine ants. They’re the dominant ant species in coastal Southern California, they form super-colonies that span entire neighborhoods, and they have a way of returning to a kitchen no matter how many times you wipe down the trail. Understanding what makes them different from other ants is the first step in actually getting them under control.
This is everything an Oceanside homeowner should know about Argentine ants — how to identify them, why they’re so persistent, and what works to push them out.
Argentine Ants Are Extremely Aggressive
How Super-Colonies Form
Since ants are widespread, people underestimate how problematic they can be. One reason you should be wary of Argentine ants is that they are aggressive. They’re particularly hostile toward other ants, but should they be in a defensive state when you encounter them, they might bite you. You will experience moderate pain.
Interactions With Other Ant Species
Argentine ants have shiny brown or black skin. Their oval-shaped and segmented bodies range in size from 1/16 to ¼ of an inch long. They get around on six legs, and while most don’t have wings, some queens and males do. If you crush them, a musty smell will be emitted. You have an infestation on your property if you notice any expansive trails. Argentine ants frequently crawl up trees and dwellings. This species is known for its supercolonies, which can contain millions of members and populate whole streets.
Argentine Ants Are Always Looking For Food & Shelter
Common Indoor Attractants
Of course, Argentine ants cannot survive without water, food, and shelter. Outdoors, they will create nests in a damp spot that is close to their meal supply; for example, in a sidewalk crack near a garbage can or beneath a board where dead bugs are. They’ll also huddle under plants and rocks. Some of what ants consume are:
- Animal carcasses
- Insects
- Honeydew
- Seeds
- Stalks
- Plant fungi
Outdoor Nesting Conditions
A cold or dry climate or bad weather will lead Argentine ants indoors. They will use overhanging utility lines or tree branches to enter your property in droves, and they’ll settle around drains, sinks, pipes, potted plants, and similar to have a little moisture. Any human food will attract them. Considering how ideal our homes and businesses are for these bugs, regular ant control is pertinent.
Three Things You Can Do To Avoid Argentine Ants
Sealing Entry Points
Here are three key Argentine ant prevention tips:
- Take care of necessary repairs. Have leaks and other moisture problems rectified. Replace window screens and door sweeps that are ripped. Patch cracks around foundations.
- Thoroughly clean the kitchen on a routine basis. Wash dishes, wipe off counters, and sweep and mop the floors. Use airtight containers to store food and trash.
- Groom your yard. Get up organic debris, cut back tree branches, mow the lawn, and trim greenery. Push plants away from the property as well.
Eliminating Food And Water Sources
Fortunately, following these tips will help deter all kinds of ants.
The Benefits Of A Year-Round Pest Control Plan
With year-round servicing from Bull’s Eye Pest Control, your home or business will have a continual defense against Argentine ants. It’s the best way to manage seasonal and frequent invaders. Our safe solutions include applications for the perimeter, foundation, passageways, landscaping, and more. Retail items aren’t fashioned for these pests and they may be dangerous if used incorrectly. Call us today to end an Argentine ant infestation on your property.
If sugar ants are trailing through your kitchen or fire ants have taken over the yard, Bull’s Eye Pest Control can find the colony and break the cycle. Reach out for a free inspection or learn more about our home pest control program.
