Ants can be a big nuisance to Bellevue area homeowners. In fact, ants are the number one nuisance pest in America. Although odorous house ants are not particularly dangerous, they can transfer bacteria to food. Keep reading to learn more about odorous house ants, including how to help prevent an infestation.
What Are Odorous House Ants?
Odorous house ants are very common in the Pacific Northwest. These tiny black or brown pests commonly invade homes in search of food and will make nests in wall voids and beneath kitchen floorboards.
Odorous house ants will often have multiple queens within a colony so they may separate from their main colony and start up a separate one, making them difficult to predict. These pests get their name from the rotten coconut-like odor they emit when crushed. When indoors, ants can contaminate food and become a huge nuisance.
How to Prevent Odorous House Ants
Odorous house ants are drawn to moisture and food. So it’s recommended to perform the following to help keep ants away.
Block off Access Points
Walk around your home, inside and out and identify areas where ants can easily gain access inside. Seal cracks and holes, using a silicone-based caulk, paying special attention to areas where pipes and utilities enter. Keep shrubbery and branches trimmed far enough from your home so ants cannot use them as bridges to giant entry. Consider installing door sweeps underneath exterior doors and store woodpiles at least 20 feet away from your home and on a raised structure.
Eliminate Moisture
Another way to make your home less inviting to odorous house ants is by eliminating moisture. Check faucets and beneath sinks for leaks and repair them. Also, clear clogged gutters and downspouts so that water flows away from your foundation. For homeowners with humid attics, basements, or crawl spaces consider adding a dehumidifier to reduce moisture.
Maintain Cleanliness
Wipe down countertops and pantry shelves to remove crumbs and residue from spills. Store food, including pet food in plastic containers. Store ripe fruits and vegetables in the refrigerator. Don’t keep pet food out all day and wipe up any spills after mealtime. It’s also a good idea to sweep and throw out the trash frequently to help keep ants away.
Need Expert Ant Control?
Odorous house ants will nest in wall voids and beneath floorboards, increasing their population without homeowners even noticing. Don’t let these pesky ants take over your home. For effective ant control and prevention in the Bellevue WA area, contact a professional like United Pest Solutions. We’ve been a local leader in pest control for over 60 years!