There are many different kinds of ants. When we see one, our typical response is to step on it, sweep it up and call it good. Next thing you know, you are smelling rotten coconuts and can't figure out where the smell could be coming from. Where is this smell coming from? Most likely, that ant you just stepped on was an odorous house ant.
Odorous house ants, although not considered harmful, can be quite a nuisance. They can be found both inside and outside your home. When outside they like to make their home under rocks, soil, and logs. If they find their way in they will often nest around pipes, near heaters, under carpets and flooring as well as in walls.
Odorous house ants are not considered a dangerous pest because they pose no physical harm to us or our property. When crushed, they emit a foul-smelling odor that is quite strong for the size of the creature that made it. For many years these ants have tormented homes with their wretched smell and getting rid of them immediately usually becomes a priority quite quickly. Here is a look at some things you can do to prevent odorous house ants.
- Clean up all foods and spills quickly and thoroughly
- Install door sweeps on exterior doors
- Patch up cracks and holes in foundations
- Seal openings around doors and windows
- Keep shrubs cut back from your house and your gutters clean and free of debris
- Seal food away in containers that have tight fitting lids
- Keep trash away from your house in a container with a lid
- Remove trash regularly
Unfortunately, even with all of your efforts, sometimes ants are still going to get in. Although you can find a lot of DIY options out there, they rarely work and are often just temporary fixes. If misused, DIY sprays and baits can be dangerous to you, your family, and pets, which is why professional control is always best. When it comes to professional control, you can be sure it is going to be both effective and efficient, ultimately saving you time and money. When it comes to odorous house ants, which are known to live in colonies containing upwards of 10,000 ants, getting each and every one of them is important. With professional help, not only are ants met with the appropriate tools, they are met with the knowledge to use them, making sure that the problem is taken care of directly at the source. Professional control also takes preventative measures and follows up periodically to make sure that pests don’t pop up in the future!
If you have ants, call Adams Exterminating Company today! We will be happy to provide you with an estimate, completely free! Is your problem out of hand or did you already step on one too many ants? Ask us about our expedited service. Let us help you keep your home fresh and smelling clean!