Cambridge’s unique blend of historic neighbourhoods, modern developments, and nearby rivers and green spaces creates an inviting environment for ants. As spring arrives and temperatures climb, ants like carpenter ants and pavement ants often make their way indoors, searching for food, moisture, and shelter. These seasonal behaviors make ant infestations a frequent concern for Cambridge residents and business owners alike.
If ants have invaded your home or business, Abell Pest Control in Cambridge is ready to help. Our local technicians use a strategic approach that combines prevention with targeted treatments. We identify how ants are entering and what attracts them, then apply focused solutions to eliminate the problem at its source and keep your space ant-free.
Effective ant control starts with accurately identifying the species, as different ants have unique behaviors and preferences. Our Cambridge team is trained to recognize local ant species and tailor treatments for lasting results.
Unlike termites, carpenter ants don’t feed on wood, they carve it out to build nests. These ants are attracted to moisture-damaged wood, typically found in places like leaking attics, behind siding, or in basement walls. They usually establish a main colony and then create satellite nests nearby. Common entry points include damaged wood trim, cracks in foundations, or roof leaks. Indoors, they may nest in hollow-core doors or near kitchen and bathroom plumbing. If you notice large ants wandering inside your home, especially at night, it could mean you have an active carpenter ant nest.
Citronella Ant (Large Yellow Ant)
The larger yellow ant, better known as the citronella ant, builds nests under logs, stones, or next to foundations. They are drawn indoors during mating swarms, attracted to damp spaces. Feeding primarily on honeydew from root-feeding insects, they can be a frustrating yet harmless household visitor.
Pavement ants are a frequent concern for homeowners in both urban and suburban areas. These ants build nests under hard surfaces like sidewalks, driveways, and slabs, and often find their way indoors through small entry points. While they don’t pose a serious health threat, they can bite or sting when handled. Their trails, often seen along baseboards or countertops, are a clear sign of activity.
Pharaoh Ants are tiny, fast-spreading ants with pale yellow colouring and darker rear segments. They form extensive colonies with multiple queens, and when disturbed, they split into new colonies, making them incredibly hard to eliminate. Common nesting areas include kitchens, bathrooms, and wall voids. They’re a frequent issue in hospitals, food facilities, and multi-unit housing due to their ability to spread bacteria and contaminate surfaces.
Outdoor spaces can become infested with European fire ants, an aggressive species known for painful stings. They commonly nest in shaded, damp spots such as gardens, lawns, woodpiles, or underneath outdoor clutter. Their bites can leave a lasting impression, literally and figuratively.
Easily recognized by their disproportionately large heads, big-headed ants typically nest outdoors in soil near man-made structures. Common nesting sites include under patios, foundations, and decaying wood. While they don’t cause physical harm to homes, they often form extensive colonies that are hard to manage. Under the right conditions, such as sudden weather changes, they may begin appearing indoors. These ants are found throughout many subtropical parts of the world.
What Are the Most Common Ant Species Found Inside Homes?
Homeowners in Canada often encounter ants like 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?
DIY ant control methods may seem helpful at first, but they often fail to get to the heart of the problem. Ant colonies are usually hidden in hard-to-reach places like inside walls or deep underground, which makes them difficult to eliminate without expert help.
The experienced team at Abell Pest Control in Cambridge is trained to identify the species, find the source, and apply effective treatments designed for long-term results.
If ants are invading your home or business, give us a call. Our local team provides fast, professional service backed by years of expertise and a satisfaction guarantee.
How Much Does It Cost to Remove Ants in Cambridge?
The cost of ant extermination in Cambridge 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.
