Nanaimo’s coastal location, mild climate, and mix of urban, forested, and waterfront areas create ideal conditions for ant infestations. During the warmer months, species like pavement ants and carpenter ants often invade homes, cottages, and businesses across Nanaimo in search of food, moisture, and shelter. This seasonal activity makes ant control a frequent concern for property owners throughout the region, including areas like Departure Bay, North Nanaimo, and Cedar.
If you are dealing with ants in your home or commercial property, Abell Pest Control in Nanaimo is here to help. Our experienced technicians take a proactive approach to pest management. We begin with a thorough inspection to identify how ants are getting in and what is attracting them. Based on these findings, we apply targeted, species-specific treatments designed to eliminate the infestation and reduce the risk of recurrence.
Whether you live in a single-family home, manage a business, or own a seasonal property near the water, Abell Pest Control offers dependable ant control solutions across Nanaimo. Reach out today to schedule your inspection and get expert help in keeping your property ant-free.
Effective ant control starts with proper identification. Different species behave differently and require specific control methods.
Pavement ants are among the most noticeable ant species in urban areas, often forming long trails that signal an active infestation. They nest under concrete surfaces like sidewalks and driveways and often enter buildings through cracks near doors and windows. While generally not harmful, they can bite or sting if they feel threatened.
If you're seeing large black ants in your home, you might be dealing with a carpenter ant infestation. These ants don’t consume wood, but they burrow into it to create galleries for nesting. They favor moisture-damaged wood, commonly found in attics, crawlspaces, and around windows or sinks. They often build a primary nest with multiple satellite colonies nearby. Outdoors, nests appear in tree stumps, logs, or firewood piles. Entry into homes typically occurs through cracks in wood siding, unsealed vents, or loose window frames. For effective carpenter ant control, early detection is key.
These tiny yellow ants are highly adaptable indoor pests. Pharaoh ants form large, multi-queen colonies and reproduce by budding, making infestations difficult to contain. They prefer warm, moist spaces such as kitchens, bathrooms, or hidden voids behind walls. Often found in healthcare facilities, apartment complexes, and food-handling areas, they pose a threat by spreading pathogens and contaminating food and sterile surfaces.
Citronella Ants (Large Yellow Ant)
Easily identified by the lemon scent they release when crushed, citronella ants thrive in moist habitats such as lawns, garden beds, and near foundation edges. Their diet consists of the sugary honeydew produced by aphids beneath the soil. Though non-invasive, swarming in spring can lead to unexpected infestations.
European Fire Ants pose a serious threat to outdoor enjoyment. With their aggressive behavior and painful stings, these ants are often found in cool, moist areas like lawns, garden beds, rotting logs, and under stones. Their presence can quickly turn your yard into a hazard zone.
The big-headed ant, named for its enlarged head, often builds nests around homes in soil under rocks, wood, and foundations. Although they don’t pose a threat to structures, their large colonies make them difficult to eradicate completely. Environmental shifts such as excessive rain or high temperatures may lead them indoors. They are widespread in warm, subtropical climates and are known for causing recurring infestations when left unchecked.
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.
How do I prevent ants from coming into my house?
Prevention starts with cleanliness and sealing entry points. Keep food sealed in airtight containers, clean up spills promptly, and take out the trash. Seal cracks and gaps around doors, windows, and foundations.
Common Ants Found Indoors
Several species of ants are commonly encountered inside homes, including odorous house ants, carpenter ants, pavement ants, and pharaoh ants. Odorous house ants are drawn to sugary foods, while 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.
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?
While DIY methods may offer short-term solutions, they rarely address the root of the problem. Without proper identification and treatment, ant colonies, often hidden deep in walls or underground, can quickly return.
Professionals like the team from Abell are trained to identify the ant species, locate nests, and apply targeted treatments that deliver long-term results.
Call now for expert, and removal in Nanaimo Our trusted local team delivers fast, professional service backed by years of experience and commitment. Whether you need a one-time removal or long-term prevention, we're here 24/7 to help and every job is backed by our satisfaction guarantee!
How much does ant removal cost in Nanaimo?
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.
