Argentine ants are the most invasive and agile ant species,
well-known for displacing native ant populations. They're believed to have
entered the United States through coffee and sugar shipments from Argentina. Today, the colonies have
invaded South America, South Africa, Europe, Australia, and the Southern United
States.
Argentine ants include two main types, the wingless worker ants
and winged queen ants. You'll likely encounter the wingless worker ants, which
are light to dark brown in color. They are incredibly fast and flexible, but
the main problem results from their tendency to merge colonies. They can form
colonies with millions of workers and thousands of queen ants.
Discover several methods to help you get rid of Argentine ants.
Use Ant Baits
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Ant baits are considered the best method for controlling the ants.
The best part about the baits is that they help destroy the ants' nests at
their root. These baits are made by combining the ants' favorite food such as
sugar water and moist cat food with boric acid.
Slow-acting ant baits are preferred to quick-kill baits since
these types of baits can be carried by worker ants to feed entire colonies.
Ensure that the bait is sweet and greasy. Nectar, aphid honeydew, plant
products, and other sugary water will attract the Argentine ants faster.
Eliminate Feeding Zones
Since Argentine ants are mainly attracted by food and moisture,
you should eliminate any feeding zones. You can start by removing any stagnant
water from empty flower pots, birdbaths, grill covers, and baby pools. Clean
any food spills in the house and outside and store edibles in sealed
containers.
Seal Cracks and Crevices
Argentine ants need an entry point for them to enter your house.
Trim nearby tree branches that may touch your home. You should also seal all
cracks and openings around the foundation of your home. Also regularly check
for cracks in your home's foundation.
Argentine ants love setting up nests under firewood and building
materials. Therefore, you should keep firewood and building materials at least
20 feet away from your house. Dispose of waste materials far from your home in
a safe place.
Spray Insecticides
You can also spray insecticides around your home to prevent their
entry. Start by spraying near windowsills, at door frames, and around building
pillars. You should constantly spray the right insecticide around your home
every three to four months to ensure the ants don't come back for good.
Remember to take proper safety precautions while using insecticides.
A mixture of water, alcohol, and liquid dish soap can also do the trick. Use a solution of
40% water, 40% alcohol, and 20% dishwashing liquid. Spray the mixture in cracks
and behind baseboards.
Argentine ants can be resilient. With their ability to reproduce
quickly, they can become a nuisance for homeowners. Contact a pest extermination expert for long-lasting solutions. A
professional exterminator can investigate your home to find the source of the
Argentine ant colony and protect your home from future attacks.
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