Burlington, nestled along the western shore of Lake Ontario, offers a vibrant mix of urban living, parks, trails, and scenic waterfront areas. This unique blend of residential neighbourhoods and natural green spaces creates the perfect environment for ants to thrive. During the spring and throughout the warm, humid summer months, ant activity, especially from species like carpenter ants and pavement ants, significantly increases.
Burlington’s seasonal climate, with cold winters, wet springs, and humid summers, often drives ants indoors in search of warmth, food, and moisture. The city’s proximity to Lake Ontario, combined with its mix of suburban and natural landscapes, makes homes and businesses particularly vulnerable to infestations.
If ants are becoming a problem in your Burlington home or commercial property, Abell Pest Control is here to help. Our local technicians understand the specific pest challenges faced in the area. We identify how ants are getting in, determine the species, and apply targeted treatments to eliminate infestations and prevent them from returning.
Understanding which ant species, you're dealing with is key to effective control. Below, we break down the most common ants found in Burlington and the specific challenges each one presents.
Carpenter Ants are larger than many ant species and are known for building nests inside wood. Although they don’t eat the wood, they chew through it to construct tunnels. Damp and decaying areas, like basements or behind leaking walls, are prime targets for carpenter ant nests. Outdoor nests are typically found in rotted logs or wet firewood. Once inside, they set up in places like hollow doors or kitchen cabinets. If you want to prevent carpenter ants, sealing entry points and addressing moisture issues are essential first steps.
Citronella Ant (Large Yellow Ant)
The larger yellow ant, or citronella ant, is commonly found throughout Canada and the U.S. Its most recognizable trait is a lemony odor released when crushed. Nesting in damp soil, under logs, or near foundations, it feeds exclusively on honeydew from root-feeding pests. While non-threatening, their swarming behavior in summer can be an annoying surprise.
Often seen in and around homes, pavement ants are small, dark brown ants that thrive in urban settings. They build nests under sidewalks, driveways, and foundations, and typically enter homes through small structural cracks. While not particularly dangerous, they may sting or bite if disturbed. Their highly visible trails make them one of the easier ant species to spot.
Pharaoh Ants are very small yellowish ants with darker tips on their bodies. They live in large colonies that contain multiple queens and multiply quickly through a process called budding. They often nest in warm, moist areas inside walls, kitchens, or bathrooms. Particularly common in apartment buildings, healthcare settings, and commercial kitchens, these ants can contaminate surfaces and food and are known to spread harmful bacteria.
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.
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.
What Are the Most Common Ant Species Found Inside Homes?
Homeowners in Canada often encounter ants like odorous house ants, carpenter ants, pavement ants, and pharaoh ants indoors. Carpenter ants’ tunnel through wet or rotting wood, pavement ants build nests in pavement cracks, and pharaoh ants can quickly infest entire buildings. Accurate identification is the first step to effective treatment.
How Do I Know If Ants Are Nesting in My Home?
Signs you may have ants inside include visible trails on countertops or walls, piles of fine debris like sawdust near baseboards, and flying ants indoors. Ants often gather near food or water, especially in kitchens and bathrooms. If you notice these signs repeatedly, it’s best to get a professional inspection.
Are Some Ants More Problematic Than Others?
Yes, certain ants can be more than just a nuisance. Carpenter ants can weaken wooden structures, fire ants are aggressive and can sting, and pharaoh ants are known to spread contaminants in sensitive areas like hospitals and kitchens. The risk depends on the type of ant and where the infestation is located.
What Steps Can I Take to Prevent Ants in My House?
How Can I Tell If I Have Carpenter Ants or Termites?
Carpenter ants and termites both damage wood, but in different ways. Termites eat wood, while carpenter ants dig through it to build their nests. Carpenter ants are usually larger and more visible. A pest expert can tell the difference and recommend a targeted treatment plan.
Do I Need a Pest Control Service to Remove Ants or Can I Try DIY Methods?
While DIY ant treatments may offer short-term relief, they often don’t address the source of the problem. Ant colonies tend to nest deep inside walls, under floors, or in hard-to-reach outdoor spots. Without proper identification and professional treatment, ants usually come back.
The Abell team in Burlington is experienced at identifying the exact ant species, locating nests, and using effective treatments designed for long-lasting results.
If you’re dealing with ants in your Burlington home, business, or property, contact us today. Our local technicians provide fast, reliable service backed by years of expertise and a satisfaction guarantee. Whether you need a one-time treatment or ongoing prevention, we are available 24/7.
How Much Does It Cost to Remove Ants in Burlington?
The cost of ant control in Burlington varies depending on the severity of the infestation and the type of ant involved. In many cases, Abell can provide a free estimate by phone after asking a few simple questions about your situation.
