Warning Signs Of Ant Infestations In Florida Homes And Yards

There are many things that are plentiful here in Florida, like palm trees, sun, sand, and ants. There are also many different types of ants within the great state of Florida, but the most common are:

• Acrobat ants
• Argentine ants
• Carpenter ants
• Fire ants
• Ghost ants
• Odorous house ants
• Pavement ants
• Pharaoh ants

Our previous blog, The Many Problems Ants Bring to Jacksonville Residents, will explain the threats Florida ants pose.

Why Ants are Such a Problem

With the many ant species in Florida, it means the risk of residents finding ants in their homes is high. Some ants are nuisance ants, while others pose serious threats to your home and health.

Carpenter ants can cause severe damage to the structural integrity of homes. They build their nests inside wood. Their tunneling hollows out the wood and weakens its stability. Since their activity is inside wooden structures, an infestation can remain unnoticed until costly damage has already occurred.

Fire ants are considered hazardous. When these ants bite, a toxic venom is released that can be painful, and their bites can be quite serious with young children.

Pharaoh ants are also a threatening species of ant, especially when they invade hospitals, as they’re capable of spreading diseases. 

Ants have the capability of contaminating kitchens and food supplies. Some ants may chew on the casing of wires, which can ultimately result in fires. Even the ants that don’t pose a threat to your health or safety, can exist in large numbers and become a nuisance inside your home.

What to Watch For

It’s important to catch an ant infestation early on, especially if there’s a risk of danger. Make sure you familiarize yourself with the warning signs of ant infestations in Florida homes and yards.

Watch out for:

• Ant mounds around your yard. If ants are numerous around your property, they’ll likely find their way inside at some point.
• Fire ant mounds are more distinguishable and visible.
• Ants crawling along pipes outside your home.
• Holes in screens can lead to ant invasions.
• Ants inside your home.
• Swarmer ants (ants with wings).
• Carpenter ants' tunnels and damage.

The best thing to do if you notice warning signs, or simply want to protect your home from invasions, is to contact professional pest control. Our blog, Why Ants Are Best Left to the Professionals, will explain why professional help is the best option. The highly trained experts at Lindsey Pest Services will inspect your home and eliminate infestations. With lots of experience and knowledge when it comes to Florida ants, you can trust us to handle your pest needs. Learn more about our residential plans by giving us a call, or request your free inspection!