Ant Identification Guide

Ants are insects and related to bees and wasps, which makes sense since they all are social and form colonies where their members have defined roles. The reproductive members of an ant colony are winged. They need their wings to fly from the nest to find a new mate and find a spot to build a new colony.

Ants are easy for most people to identify. They are common pests and have a distinct body shape consisting of three defined body segments, six legs, and short bent antennae. They come in various colors, including black, brown, red, and yellow.

Below is a list of the ants you are most likely to run into in your Idaho yard or home.

• Black ants
• Carpenter ants
• House ants
• Pavement ants
• Red ants

We have many different pests in Idaho that we need to keep off our properties. Most are more annoying than problematic, but that doesn't mean we should allow them to wreak havoc and move in and out of our homes as they please.

Ants carry bacteria on their bodies and legs that they pick up while scavenging for food. When they get into your home, they spread that bacteria to surfaces and food.

Some ants are more of an issue to have in our homes because of their ability to cause structural damage (carpenter ants) or because they are aggressive and bite and sting us (red ants).

Ants are omnivores, meaning they eat a varied diet and can feed on many of the same things we do; a big reason why ants are such a problem for people. Our Meridian properties provide ants with many food sources.

• Garbage cans
• Recycling bins
• Pet food bowls
• Gardens
• Flowerbeds
• Outdoor eating areas
• Kitchens and pantries

Ants are very systematic when searching for food sources; they leave behind pheromone trails to help guide the other colony members to the food they have found. Their ability to successfully communicate is why you may go from seeing a few ants to hundreds or more within a very short period.

Ants can live successfully in both indoor and outdoor spaces. While ants mainly nest outside, they may also find their way into our homes to nest, usually after being attracted by food or water. When nesting indoors, ants can remain active throughout the entire year.

Inside your home, ants commonly place their nests in moist areas. Common nesting sites include structural wood, space under floors, and behind cabinets. They also like to nest inside wall voids near tubs, sinks, dishwashers, windows, and doors.

Get rid of ants from your Idaho yard and home with the help of Sawtooth Pest Control. Trust us and our 18 years of combined experience to solve your property's ant problems. We can provide our home pest control and commercial pest control services bimonthly or quarterly, depending on your property's unique needs.

Our professionals will accurately identify the ants on your property and provide regular visits to perform the treatments necessary to eliminate ants and other household pests. Call today and speak with one of our friendly experts to learn more about our various control options!

Prevent ants from taking over your home with the assistance of the professionals at Sawtooth Pest Control and the following helpful tips:

• Use appropriate materials to close gaps in your foundation, exterior walls, and roofline.
• Damp soil draws ants to an area; repair leaky outdoor fixtures and make sure gutters direct rainwater away from your home's perimeter.
• Inside your home, make sure to repair leaky pipes and fixtures and ensure your home has proper ventilation.
• Overgrown and decaying vegetation make ants think they are welcome; keep your lawn mowed short and remove piles of debris from your yard.
• Store both food and garbage in airtight containers.