As the weather warms up in Ottawa, ants become a frequent issue for homeowners and businesses. Common species like pavement ants and carpenter ants often enter buildings during spring and summer, looking for food and shelter. If not addressed early, their presence can grow into a full infestation.
Ottawa’s combination of urban neighborhoods, older buildings, and surrounding green space creates ideal conditions for ants to thrive. The city’s parks, wooded areas, and proximity to the Ottawa River give ants ample places to nest and spread into nearby.
Effective ant control in Ottawa starts with proper identification. Different ant species found in the area, such as pavement ants and carpenter ants, have distinct behaviours and nesting habits. Each type requires a specific approach for successful treatment. Knowing exactly which species you are dealing with is essential for eliminating the problem and preventing it from returning.
Frequently found in cities and residential areas, pavement ants are small, dark-coloured ants that prefer to nest under concrete surfaces such as sidewalks, driveways, and foundation slabs. They enter buildings through tiny openings around windows, doors, and other structural gaps. Though generally harmless, they can bite or sting when provoked. Their long foraging trails are usually the first sign of a growing colony.
Carpenter Ants are a serious nuisance that can quietly damage your home. Unlike termites, they don’t eat wood but remove it to create intricate nesting tunnels. They thrive in areas with excess moisture, such as basements, attic beams, and around leaking windows. These ants enter homes through damaged wood, cracks near doors, or small gaps in exterior walls. Once inside, they can build nests in wooden doors, behind drywall, or near plumbing. Signs of carpenter ants include rustling sounds in walls, small piles of sawdust, and nighttime sightings of large, black ants.
Known for their oversized heads, big-headed ants often make nests in the soil surrounding homes. They're typically found under pavers, near foundations, or hidden in decaying wood and yard debris. These ants don’t harm structures directly, but their large colonies can be incredibly difficult to eliminate once established. Though primarily outdoor dwellers, changes in moisture or temperature may drive them inside. They’re frequently encountered in subtropical climates around the world.
Citronella Ants (Large Yellow Ant)
Citronella ants, also called large yellow ants, are common throughout North America. They have a yellow colour and give off a citrus-like odour when crushed. These ants prefer moist areas like soil, under logs, or near building foundations. Although they don’t harm humans or contaminate food, they can become a nuisance when they swarm indoors during warm months. Unlike other ants, citronella ants feed on honeydew from underground insects, not household food.
Pharaoh Ants Monomorium pharaonis) are tiny, pale yellow ants with darker abdomens. They form massive colonies with multiple queens and reproduce by budding, which allows them to spread rapidly indoors. These ants thrive in warm, humid environments such as wall voids, kitchens, and bathrooms, and are especially difficult to eliminate. Common in apartments, hospitals, and restaurants, they contaminate food and surfaces and can carry bacteria like Salmonella and Staphylococcus, posing serious health risks.
European Fire Ants can quickly become a major nuisance in outdoor environments. These aggressive insects prefer to nest in damp, shaded areas like gardens, under stones, and in decaying organic matter. Their painful stings can make outdoor activities uncomfortable or even unbearable.
Do I need a pest control service for ants, or can I get rid of them myself?
Trying to tackle an ant problem on your own might offer temporary relief, but it rarely gets to the source. Ant colonies often nest in hard-to-reach places such as behind walls, under foundations, or in outdoor structures, making full removal a challenge without expert help.
At Abell Pest Control, our technicians are familiar with the ant species found in Orléans and the surrounding region. We know how to locate nests, identify what’s attracting the ants, and apply effective treatments that deliver lasting results.
If you're dealing with an ant infestation, reach out to Abell for trusted pest control in Orléans. Whether you need immediate removal or year-round prevention, our local team is here to help with professional service backed by a satisfaction guarantee.
Common Ants Found Indoors
Several species of ants are commonly encountered inside homes, including carpenter ants, pavement ants, and pharaoh ants. 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.
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.
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.
How much does ant removal cost in Ottawa?
Ant removal costs can vary based on the species, severity of the infestation, and the services
