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Although most nest outside, they often venture indoors on their endless search for food. Many people are unaware of the potential danger of disease transmission that is associated with ants. While house ants generally cause no direct damage they can become a nuisance if the nests get too large. This is particularly alarming considering ants are most often found in food storage and food preparation areas. Ants' nests are commonly found in the following outdoor areas: In exposed soil Under the cover of logs In plant cavities In decayed or moist wood Around paths or rockeries Behind or in retaining walls In crevices in brickwork Garbage bins Planters, pots and garden beds Paved areas Lawns Major problem areas: Ants build mounds of soil when making their nests that can smother and kill grass plants Ant tunnels may cause underground roots to dry out, killing the grass and destroying the lawn When ants infest paved areas, they remove the sand between pavers, making the area unstable and unsightly Ants defend insects that damage plants, such as aphids, scales and mealybugs from attack by their natural enemies and then carry the insects to un-infested plants Inside Ants are commonly found in the following indoor areas: Behind skirtings and architraves In wall voids Beneath floors Around foundations Under stoves or cupboards When ants find food, they leave an invisible chemical trail, called 'pherenome', so that other ants can find their way from the nest to the food source. These 'trails' of ants are very persistent even in extended periods of wet weather. Ants can feed on almost anything consumed by humans. Simply killing the ants you see still leaves this scent trail for the others in the nest to follow. Reduce attraction: Stored foods that are attractive to ants should be kept in tightly sealed containers Floor, cupboard and pantry areas should be kept free of crumbs Transfer wastes from the preparation and cleanup of food to a garbage bin Store garbage bins in dry places (not under sinks), empty them often and keep them clean Correct moisture problems Correct ventilation problems Reduce Access: Seal possible entry spots, such as small gaps around doors and windows, along skirting boards, cracks in walls, and gaps around plumbing fixtures Inspect plants or equipment for ants before bringing indoors For more helpful control ideas, check out the links and services below: ant control auckland
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