806.745.3738 [email protected]

Ants

Ants are social insects that live together in cooperative, intermingling colonies. The colonies may range in size from hundreds to millions of individuals, depending on the species. Within each colony are different types of ants, each with a specific function. In addition, all ant colonies contain one or more queens, whose primary role is to lay eggs. The eggs hatch into white, grub-like larvae that later transform into adult worker ants. Then, the workers feed and care for the queen and her developing brood by foraging for food and water, often at great distances from the colony. Also, ants lay down invisible odor trails, which the workers follow between food and the nest. In many species, the trail of ants is distinct enough to be followed back to the nesting location or to where the ants are entering from outdoors.

At certain times of the year, ant colonies produce large numbers of winged individuals known as swarmers. These winged ants emerge from the nest to mate and establish new colonies. When a swarm of ants emerges inside a home, it indicates that a nest is present within the structure. Fortunately, the success rate for swarmers establishing new colonies inside buildings is low. Nonetheless, an exodus of winged ants emerging indoors can be disturbing and often mistaken for termites.

Active Pest Infestation Services

Do you have an active pest, rodent, or other wildlife situation that needs immediate attention? Give us a call or contact us, and we can give you a specialized quote tailored to your exact needs.

Get a quote from us M-F, 8am to 5pm

THE MOST COMMON Types of ANTS IN THE LUBBOCK / WEST TEXAS AREA ARE:

ACROBAT ANT | ARGENTINE ANT | CARPENTER ANT | FIRE ANT | ODOROUS HOUSE ANT | PAVEMENT ANT | PHARAOH ANT | ROVER ANT

Why Ants Can Be Difficult to Treat

Ants are the most frequent and persistent pests encountered around homes and buildings. Besides being a nuisance, ants contaminate food, build unsightly mounds on the property, and cause structural damage by hollowing out wood for nesting. Also, species such as fire ants inflict painful stings, which can be life-threatening to hypersensitive individuals.

To most homeowners, all ants look pretty much alike. However, dozens of different species occur around homes and buildings, each having unique characteristics that may influence control methods. In Texas, the most common invading ants include pavement ants, carpenter ants, acrobat ants, pharaoh ants, and odorous house ants. In fact, latter species has become a particular nuisance in recent years. Knowing which ants you have often requires the help of an entomologist or knowledgeable pest control professionals. Therefore, collecting a few non-winged worker ants in a plastic bag or vial will help with subsequent identification.

Dealing with ants can be very frustrating because they have an excellent sense of smell and can sense the presence of pesticides. As a result, they simply avoid it until it goes away or moves over a few feet from where you treated. Consequently, spraying the ants you see is no different than stepping on a few in your driveway and thinking you took care of your problem.

Several species of ants in Lubbock and the West Texas area are even difficult for professional pest control companies to control. Specifically, argentine ants, odorous house ants, and harvester ants can be tough to deal with. In most cases, professionals require restricted-use products to gain control. It is vital to identify the type of ants that are causing your problem to know how to get rid of them, and we can set up a program that will be specific to your ant infestation.

WHAT ARE IPM (INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT) STEPS FOR STINGING PEST CONTROL?

1. HIRE US

Let Meers Pest Solutions identify your problem. Our Safeguard Supreme Bundled Service Programs all include ant coverage.

2. BLOCK OFF OR ELIMINATE ACCESS POINTS

Inspect the outside of your home for access points. Even the tiniest of openings can be a big welcoming entrance for ants.

3. DON’T DISCOUNT YOUR PETS

Pets can inadvertently invite your ants into your home. Double check and make sure Fido isn’t bringing in new friends!

4. ELIMINATE FOOD SOURCES

Keeping your kitchen tidy will help to discourage ants. Nothing says “Hey Ants, Come Here!” more than having a buffet in your trash can.

5. ELIMINATE WATER SOURCES

Reduce moisture and standing water. Just as you don’t want to have a buffet for ants, you don’t want to offer them a swimming pool either!

6. KNOW THE POPULAR HANGOUTS

Kitchens are the most popular, bathrooms make a close second! Knowing where they hang out is important to aid in prevention.

DO-IT-YOURSELF INEFFECTIVENESS:

Ants are better at hiding than you are at finding them, and their eggs are naturally protected from many over-the-counter insecticides. Therefore, without the proper pesticide, special equipment, materials, and know-how, ant control can be a losing battle.

For more than 50 years, we have proudly delivered safe and effective ant control and treatment to the residents of Lubbock and the surrounding West Texas and Eastern New Mexico areas with a Satisfaction Guarantee.

Don't Let Pests Be A Pest

We've been serving the Lubbock area for 50 years, so we know a thing or two about treating the pests in our area. With a friendly, knowledgable team and competitive pricing, give us a call today and discover the Meers Pest Solutions difference.

Skip to content