What are Moisture Ants?
Moisture ants, also known as Pavement ants, are small ants that are commonly found in homes and buildings. They get their name from their tendency to nest in moist or damp areas, such as in or around foundations, under sidewalks, or in the soil around plants. These ants are brown or black in color and are typically about 1/8 inch long.
While they may seem small and harmless, moisture ants can cause significant damage to a home or building. They are known to forage for food both inside and outside of homes, and they can be found in a variety of environments, including gardens, forests, and urban areas.
What Do Moisture Ants Do?
Moisture ants are attracted to sweet substances and will often be found near sources of food in a home. They can infest pantries, kitchens, and other areas where food is stored or prepared. In addition to being a nuisance, these ants can contaminate food and surfaces with their feces and saliva, which can lead to health concerns.
In addition to causing damage to a home, moisture ants can also damage plants and gardens. They feed on the sugary secretions of plant pests, such as aphids, and can also damage plants by tunneling through roots and stems.
Conditions Moisture Ants Enjoy
Moisture ants prefer warm, moist environments and often nest in or around foundations, under sidewalks, or in the soil around plants. They are particularly fond of wood, and can often be found nesting in woodpiles or in structural wood in a home or building.
In addition to seeking out warm, moist environments, moisture ants are also attracted to sources of food and water. They will forage for food both inside and outside of homes, and may be found near sources of sweet substances, such as spills and crumbs.
Treating a Moisture Ant Infestation
If you suspect that you have a moisture ant infestation, it’s important to take action quickly to prevent further damage and protect your home and family. Here are a few steps you can take to treat a moisture ant infestation:
-
Locate and eliminate the nest:
In order to effectively control a moisture ant infestation, it’s important to locate and eliminate their nest. This may require the help of a professional pest control technician, as ants can be difficult to track down and eliminate.
-
Remove sources of food:
One of the most effective ways to prevent moisture ants from entering a home is to remove sources of food. This means cleaning up spills and crumbs, storing food in airtight containers, and regularly cleaning surfaces where food is prepared or stored.
-
Repair or eliminate sources of moisture:
Moisture ants are attracted to moist or damp conditions, so it’s important to repair any leaks or sources of moisture that may be attracting them. This may involve fixing leaking pipes, sealing cracks and crevices to prevent water from entering a home, or using a dehumidifier to reduce humidity levels.
-
Use commercial ant bait:
Commercial ant bait products can be effective in controlling a moisture ant infestation. These products contain a chemical that is attractive to ants, and when ingested, it will kill the ant and help to eliminate the colony.
-
Contact a professional pest control company:
If you’re unable to effectively control a moisture ant infestation on your own, it may be necessary to contact a professional like New Day Pest by calling (360) 506-9603.