Why Do Ants Seek Protection Indoors?
Ants are amazingly resilient creatures that can survive in a variety of environments. Many species of ants are also capable of finding their way into our homes, where they often seek protection from the elements and predators. In this blog post, we‘ll explore how ants seek protection indoors, and what homeowners can do to keep them out.
One of the most common signs of an ant infestation is the presence of small, black ants in the home. These ants typically have a distinctive scent and often have a trail leading from outside to inside the home. Other signs of an infestation include the presence of ant nests and/or piles of dirt.
Why Do Ants Seek Protection Indoors?
Ants seek protection indoors for a variety of reasons. In some cases, the ants are simply seeking shelter from the elements, such as rain, snow, and extreme temperatures. Just like humans, ants get cold and wet in inclement weather and seek a warm, dry place to stay. Ants also seek protection from predators, such as birds and other insects.
Fortunately, there are several steps that homeowners can take to keep ants out of their homes. First, homeowners should make sure to seal off any cracks or crevices in the foundation of their homes. This will help to prevent ants from entering the home through these openings.
Second, homeowners should make sure to keep their homes clean and free of food and water sources. This will help to reduce the attractiveness of the home to ants. Third, homeowners should make sure to remove any excess foliage, such as tree branches, from near the home. This will help to reduce the presence of ant trails leading to the home.
What Can I Do To Protect My Home From Ants?
Tips for preventing ants around the home include:
1. Clean up spilled food and drinks immediately.
2. Store food in airtight containers.
3. Seal cracks and crevices in the foundation, windows, doors and other places around the house to prevent ants from entering.
4. Repair leaky faucets and pipes.
5. Remove pet food and water bowls during the night.
6. Use a cinnamon or citrus-based natural repellent spray around the perimeter of your home.
7. Place boric acid around the home in areas where ants can enter.
8. Trim foliage and tree branches away from the house.
9. Plant ant-repelling plants like mint, lavender, and sage near your home.
10. Avoid using sweet-smelling perfumes and lotions.
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Can Ants Damage Your Home?
Ants can be a nuisance for homeowners, but many people don’t realize that they can also cause damage to your home if left unchecked. Ants can cause a variety of problems, ranging from the destruction of wood to the contamination of food and water sources. They can also spread disease and cause allergies in humans.
Damage to Wood: Ants can cause significant damage to wood structures in and around your home. Carpenter ants and termites are two of the most common culprits. Carpenter ants tunnel through wood, weakening it and making it more susceptible to damage. Termites feed on wood, slowly eating away at the structure of your home. Both of these pests can cause significant damage if left unchecked.
Contamination of Food and Water Sources: Ants will often contaminate food and water sources, especially if they are not properly sealed and stored. A few ants in the pantry or kitchen can quickly turn into an infestation if left unchecked. Ants can contaminate food with their feces and saliva, leading to serious health risks.
It is true that ants can cause a variety of problems if left unchecked. The best way to prevent ant damage is to keep your home clean and free of food sources. Regularly inspect your home for signs of ants and contact a pest control professional if you suspect an infestation.