Common Types Of Ants In Richmond
Ants may be tiny, but they can greatly impact your home. If you’re a Richmond homeowner, you’re likely familiar with these industrious insects. In this blog post, we’ll introduce you to three common types of ants you might encounter in the area, including the wood-damaging carpenter ant. Plus, we’ll explore how the weather affects ant behavior and provide tips on preventing infestations.
Common types of ants in Richmond
Carpenter ants
Carpenter ants are among the most well-known ants in Richmond and throughout Virginia, thanks to their wood-damaging habits. They’re large, ranging from ¼ to ½ inch long, and usually black or bicolored red and black. Unlike termites, carpenter ants don’t eat wood but hollow it out to build their nests.
Odorous house ants
Small but persistent, odorous house ants are typically 1/16 to 1/8 inch long and brown or black. They get their name from the unpleasant, rotten coconut-like odor they emit when crushed.
Argentine ants
Argentine ants are small, about 1/8 inch long, and light to dark brown. They are known for their aggressive behavior and tendency to form large, overlapping colonies that can become a significant problem when they invade homes.
For help identifying ants on your property, contact Evergreen Pest Solutions.
How weather affects ant activity
Carpenter ants are particularly active during warm months, from spring through fall. They may enter homes seeking food and water, especially if outdoor conditions are too dry or wet. Moisture in wood from leaks or high humidity can attract them and lead to significant damage if left untreated.
Odorous house ants are also most active during warmer months. They thrive in dry and moist environments, often coming indoors during dry, hot spells to fin water. They can be a nuisance in kitchens and bathrooms, where they are drawn to food and water sources.
Another warm weather pest, Argentine ants are more noticeable during hot, dry periods. They are known for their adaptability and can thrive in a variety of conditions, which makes them a persistent pest problem for homeowners in Richmond and throughout Virginia.
How to prevent ant infestations
To make your home and yard less appealing to these ants and other pests, we recommend implementing the following pest prevention tips:
- Seal entry points.
- Repair leaks in plumbing, roof, and around the house.
- Reduce moisture and humidity in your home.
- Keep the kitchen and other areas clean.
- Store food in airtight containers.
- Mow your lawn regularly.
- Trim trees, bushes, and shrubs.
- Make sure indoor and outdoor trash cans are tightly sealed.
For additional ant prevention tips, talk with the Evergreen Pest Solutions team and be sure to ask about our home pest control services.
Professional ant control in Richmond, VA
If you've noticed ants crawling across your kitchen floor, have found them in your bathroom, or have discovered them elsewhere in your home or yard, contact Evergreen Pest Solutions today! We are a local pest control company that specializes in effective pest control services in Richmond, Charlottesville, and Roanoke, as well as throughout our Virginia service area.
When you reach out for help getting rid of ants, we'll send a pest control specialist your way to inspect your property and implement treatment to help you exterminate ants and prevent future problems with these pests.
Contact us today to learn more about our services or to request a free pest control quote!
