Mississauga’s diverse mix of residential communities, urban developments, and nearby natural spaces like the Credit River Valley, Lake Ontario shoreline, and parks such as Erindale and Jack Darling Park create ideal conditions for ants to thrive. As spring and summer temperatures rise, ants are commonly found entering homes, condominiums, and commercial buildings in search of food, moisture, and shelter.
Abell Pest Control provides trusted ant control services across Mississauga. Whether you're a homeowner in Port Credit, a business owner in the city centre, or managing a property in Meadowvale or Clarkson, our team is equipped to handle infestations quickly and effectively. We conduct a thorough inspection to identify how ants are getting in, determine what’s attracting them, and apply species-specific treatments to eliminate the problem at the source.
Common Ant Species and the Challenges They Present:
Carpenter Ants are a major wood-boring pest that can weaken the structure of a home by building extensive tunnel systems inside wood. They prefer damp wood, which is commonly found near windows, sinks, or basements. Although they don’t eat the wood, their burrowing causes real damage. Outdoor nests often develop in stumps or mulch piles, while indoor nests are in hidden, moist areas. The most active time for carpenter ants is during the night, and their presence indoors often signals a need for immediate pest control measures.
Citronella Ants (Large Yellow Ant)
The citronella ant, often called the larger yellow ant, is found throughout much of North America. These ants are known for their yellow-brown colouring and the citrus-like odour they release when crushed. They prefer to build their nests in damp environments, such as under logs, in moist soil, or around building foundations. Although they don’t pose a threat to humans and don’t contaminate food, their tendency to swarm indoors during the warmer months can be bothersome. Instead of typical household food, they feed on the sugary honeydew secreted by underground insects.
Tiny and yellow with dark rear segments, Pharaoh ants are a challenging pest to manage indoors. They form large colonies with several queens and multiply rapidly by budding. These ants often nest in warm, moist areas like bathrooms, behind walls, and inside appliances. They’re particularly troublesome in healthcare settings, food prep areas, and multi-family housing due to the contamination risks they pose.
Pavement ants are small, dark brown ants commonly found nesting under sidewalks, driveways, foundation slabs, and between walls. They can enter homes and buildings through tiny cracks around doors, windows, and sliding door tracks. While generally harmless, they can bite or sting when disturbed, causing mild discomfort. Long, visible trails of ants are often the first sign of an infestation, making pavement ants one of the most noticeable ant problems in urban areas.
With heads significantly larger than their bodies, big-headed ants are easy to spot. These ants usually build their nests outdoors, in soil beneath stones, foundations, rotting wood, and stumps. Although they don't destroy structures, the large size of their colonies can make control efforts frustrating and prolonged. When outdoor conditions become unfavorable, they may move indoors in search of better shelter. They are a common pest in subtropical zones worldwide.
European Fire Ants is an aggressive invader that thrives in shady, moist locations such as gardens, lawns, compost piles, and potted plants. Their venomous sting causes intense pain and irritation, turning peaceful yards into problematic pest zones.
What types of ants are commonly found in homes in Mississauga, Ontario?
Several ant species are known to invade homes and businesses in the Mississauga area. The most common include:
Correct species identification is essential to applying the most effective treatment and preventing future infestations.
Which types of ants are most harmful to homes in Mississauga?
Identifying the species helps determine the risk level and the urgency of treatment.
How do I know if I have an ant infestation?
Here are some common signs of an ant problem in your home:
If any of these signs are present, it’s time to schedule a professional inspection with Abell Pest Control in Mississauga.
What can I do to prevent ants from getting into my home?
To reduce the risk of an ant infestation in your Mississauga home:
Regular pest control inspections can catch early signs of a problem before it grows.
Should I try DIY ant control or call a professional?
Over-the-counter ant sprays and bait traps may reduce visible activity, but they rarely eliminate the root of the problem. Ant colonies often nest behind walls, beneath floors, or outdoors in hard-to-reach areas. Without proper treatment, ants typically return.
Abell Pest Control offers professional ant control services throughout Mississauga. Our licensed technicians are trained to identify the exact species, locate hidden nests, and use targeted treatments designed for long-lasting results in residential and commercial properties.
Whether you're facing a small ant problem or a larger infestation, our team provides fast, reliable service backed by decades of experience and a satisfaction guarantee.
What is the difference between carpenter ants and termites?
While both pests damage wood, they behave differently:
A trained pest control expert can confirm the pest type and recommend the best course of action.
How much does ant extermination cost in Mississauga, ON?
The cost of professional ant control varies based on:
