Ants plague many Las Vegas homeowners. These insects will eat just about anything they encounter, making it especially frustrating to eliminate ants once they’ve invaded your home. Professional pest control services are usually required to remediate the problem. That’s why ant prevention is key to keeping these incessant insects outside where they belong.
Types Of Ants In Las Vegas
Like all insects, ants have six legs and segmented bodies that are divided into three sections: head, thorax, and abdomen. The head has two eyes, two antennae, and a set of pincers. There’s a small stinger at the tip of the abdomen. While there are thousands of species of ants in the world, four kinds often cause problems for Las Vegas and Southern Nevada homeowners.
Pavement Ants
Quite small and dark brown to black in color, pavement ants are often found on paved areas. They nest in the cracks and crevices in sidewalks, cement slabs, driveways, and building foundations. Pavement ants will eat just about anything they encounter.
Harvester Ants
Harvester ants make their nests in open, grassy areas such as yards and golf courses. They’re less than ½ inch in length and can vary in coloration between red, brown, and black. Harvester ants harvest food and return with it to feed their colonies.
Argentine Ants
These brown or black ants are especially difficult to control in your home. They maintain multiple nesting sites, especially in places with lots of moisture like under rocks and fallen trees. In your home, you may notice Argentine ants walking in a straight line in the kitchen or bathroom of your Las Vegas home.
Fire Ants
Small in size but highly aggressive, fire ants will attack if they perceive a threat. Their bites are painful and result in raised red splotches on the skin. Fire ants are reddish-brown and usually nest outdoors in sunny areas. They don’t usually infest homes but they can be a problem in your yard.
Four Ways to Prevent Ants in Las Vegas
Ants can get into your home through the smallest of cracks and openings. They are constantly looking for food to feed their colonies. If they find a food source in your home, they’ll keep coming back for more. Many species of ants are attracted to moisture as well. Here are simple ways to keep ants out of your Las Vegas home.
- Eliminate food sources: The best way to prevent ants is to remove potential food sources. Wipe up crumbs and spills from countertops, tables, and floors. Sweep underneath appliances regularly. Clean dirty dishes and utensils after each meal. Store pantry foods in airtight containers.
- Seal entry points: Ants are very small and can fit through even the tiniest space. Use caulk to seal cracks and crevices around the foundation of your home. Repair holes in screens and replace worn or damaged door sweeps.
- Trim trees around your home: Ants can access your roof by climbing trees. Trim tree limbs so ants don’t have an easy way to access your home.
- Don’t leave food outdoors: Once ants find food on your property, it probably won’t be long until they make their way inside your home. Never leave bowls of pet food outside where it could attract ants. Use tight-fitting lids on garbage cans.
Professional Ant Control In Las Vegas
Despite your best efforts, ants may find their way into your home in Las Vegas and the surrounding areas. Over-the-counter pesticides and baits will not eliminate an entire ant colony. For that, you’ll need professional pest control services.
Evolve Pest Control offers ant treatment that’s safe for your family and the environment. We pride ourselves on customer service and are committed to providing long-term solutions for your nuisance pest problems.
Call us today at 702-978-7483 to schedule a free inspection.