If you have seen very small, light yellow to red ants, you might have Pharaoh ants in your home. Unlike some other types of ants which might be harmless, this kind is known to spread diseases that can be damaging to your health, even fatal. If you suspect an infestation, it is important that you learn how to recognize Pharaoh ants and how to get rid of them safely, as well as prevent them from coming back. If you are looking for reliable pest control in Anaheim, A1 Bonded Termite can help you get rid of your infestation quickly and effectively.
What Does A Pharaoh Ant Look Like?
Pharaoh ants are very small ants that are usually light yellow to red, with an evenly rounded thorax and red markings on their abdomen. You can recognize a Pharaoh ant queen on your property by her darker color compared to that of worker ants, but queens are usually more difficult to spot as they tend to stay hidden unless the colony is moving. While their small size may make them seem inoffensive, Pharaoh ants can actually be quite dangerous. A tropical species, they thrive under warm conditions, but can also build colonies in well-heated homes and buildings.
How Dangerous Are Pharaoh Ants?
Unlike some other types of ants which might not need immediate attention, Pharaoh ants need to be exterminated as quickly as possible as they carry many diseases and illnesses that can be fatal, including salmonellosis, staphylococcus, streptococcus, and botulism. They usually spread these illnesses by contaminating the food supply, therefore introducing dangerous pathogens to you and your family. And while they do not bite humans directly, they can cause damage to homes and buildings as a result of building nests within walls.
How Do You Get Rid Of Pharaoh Ants For Good?
You may be tempted to reach for Pharaoh ant poison to eradicate the problem. Unfortunately, ant baits don't address a full infestation, and won't eliminate an entire Pharaoh ant colony. The best way to get rid of Pharaoh ants for good is to ask a professional pest control company for advice on the most effective Pharaoh ant treatments for your Anaheim home based on your specific situation.
How Do You Prevent Pharaoh Ants From Coming Back?
Getting rid of Pharaoh ants can be very difficult as they are persistent and new colonies can form if you do not take care of the reasons why the first colony established itself in the first place. In general, here are some tips to prevent Pharaoh ants from coming back:
- Seal cracks in your home, as ants can use them to come inside.
- Make sure all windows and doors have well-maintained fine mesh screens.
- Put away all sources of fat and sugar as they can attract Pharaoh ants.
- Make sure your foundation is in good shape. Cracked and damaged foundations can be a way for Pharaoh ants to get indoors.
Keeping Pharaoh ants away can be difficult, but the tips above should help control the population. If they do not, it might be time to contact A1 Bonded Termite, as ants reproduce quickly and can cause irreversible damage to property and spread diseases.
Pharaoh ants might look small and harmless, but they are vectors of diseases and can damage your home. If you suspect an infestation, or know that Pharaoh ants have taken over your home, it is important that you safely and effectively eliminate the problem. A1 Bonded Termite provides ant control treatments tailored to your situation, and can help keep your house free of ants for good. Contact us today, to get started