Kitchener’s mix of established neighbourhoods, growing suburbs, and nearby green spaces makes it a hotspot for ant activity, especially during the spring and summer. The region’s warm, humid climate creates ideal conditions for ants like pavement ants and carpenter ants to invade homes and businesses in search of food, moisture, and shelter.
If you’re dealing with an ant infestation in Kitchener, Abell Pest Control offers expert, locally informed solutions. Our licensed technicians begin with a full inspection to determine how ants are getting inside and identify what’s attracting them. We then apply effective treatments that not only eliminate the current infestation but help stop ants from returning.
Accurate identification is the first step in successful ant control.
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 Ants (Large Yellow Ant)
The yellow ant, commonly referred to as the citronella ant, is found throughout Canada and the United States. It is recognized by its yellow to yellow-brown colour and the citrus-like odour it releases when crushed. These ants are non-aggressive and lack stingers. Yellow ants typically nest in moist environments, such as soil near building foundations, under logs, or in damp wood within homes. They do not feed on household food, relying instead on honeydew from underground insects. While not harmful to humans, their presence indoors can be a nuisance, especially when colonies are established. Swarming generally occurs during the warmer months, particularly in June and July.
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.
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.
European Fire Ants recognized for their hostile behavior and painful sting, often make their homes in shaded, damp environments. You might find them nesting in your backyard garden, beneath logs, or hidden in lawn debris. Their sting delivers sharp pain and discomfort, making them a persistent outdoor pest.
Big-headed ants are easily identified by their oversized heads relative to their bodies. They typically nest in soil around structures, under foundations, patio stones, rotting wood, tree stumps, and debris. While they don’t cause structural damage, their large colonies can be difficult to control and may lead to persistent infestations. Though usually outdoor nesters, changes in environmental conditions can drive them indoors. They are commonly found in subtropical regions worldwide.
How to Keep Ants Away
Common Ants Found Indoors
Several species of ants are commonly encountered inside homes, including carpenter ants, pavement ants, and pharaoh ants. Carpenter ants’ tunnel through moist or decaying wood, potentially leading to structural damage. Pavement ants typically nest in cracks in concrete or masonry, and pharaoh ants are notorious for rapidly spreading throughout buildings. Proper identification is crucial for effective control and long-term prevention.
How can I tell if I have an ant infestation in my home?
Common signs of an ant infestation include visible ant trails (in kitchens and along baseboards), small piles of dirt or sawdust near walls, and the presence of winged ants, which may indicate a mature colony. You may also notice ants clustering around food or moisture sources. If you see ants regularly, contact Abell.
What are the most dangerous or harmful types of ants to watch out for?
While most ants are simply a nuisance, some can pose risks. Carpenter ants can cause structural damage by tunneling through wood. Fire ants deliver painful stings and can trigger allergic reactions. Pharaoh ants can spread bacteria and are particularly problematic in hospitals. Identifying the type of ant is essential to understanding the risk and the best treatment approach.
What’s the difference between regular ants and carpenter ants or termites?
Carpenter ants are larger than most household ants and are often mistaken for termites. Unlike termites, carpenter ants do not eat wood but excavate it to build nests, causing structural damage. A professional inspection can help determine which ant you are dealing with.
Do I need a pest control service for ants, or can I get rid of them myself?
DIY ant products may offer brief relief, but they rarely eliminate the colony. Nests often hide in walls, under floors, or outdoors, so the problem returns without professional help. Abell’s licensed technicians identify the species, locate nests, and apply targeted treatments for lasting results. We provide fast, expert service, one-time or year-round, available 24/7 and backed by decades of experience and our satisfaction guarantee.
How much does ant removal cost in Kitchener?
Ant removal costs can vary based on the species, severity of the infestation, and the services needed. We can typically identify the ant species and provide you a quote right over the phone.
