Richmond, British Columbia is a thriving coastal city in Metro Vancouver, known for its mix of residential neighbourhoods, parks, and commercial development. Its mild, damp climate creates ideal conditions for ants to flourish. As spring and summer temperatures rise, ant activity increases, often leading to infestations in homes and businesses throughout the area.
Richmond’s coastal climate, with cool, wet winters and warm, humid summers, encourages ants to seek shelter indoors, where they can find warmth, food, and moisture.
If you’re noticing signs of ant activity, Abell Pest Control provides professional ant inspection and removal services across Richmond and nearby areas. Our certified technicians are highly experienced with pest control in the Lower Mainland. We perform detailed property inspections, identify the ant species present, locate nesting sites, and apply effective treatments customized to your situation.
Pavement ants are small, dark brown ants commonly found nesting under sidewalks, driveways, foundation slabs, and between walls. They can enter homes and buildings through tiny cracks around doors, windows, and sliding door tracks. While generally harmless, they can bite or sting when disturbed, causing mild discomfort. Long, visible trails of ants are often the first sign of an infestation, making pavement ants one of the most noticeable ant problems in urban areas.
European fire ants are notorious for their aggressive nature and extremely painful stings. Commonly found nesting in damp, shady areas like gardens, lawns, under rocks, decaying logs, and even potted plants, these invasive ants pose a serious problem. Their stings cause intense discomfort and irritation, turning outdoor spaces into danger zones.
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.
Carpenter Ants are a major wood-boring pest that can weaken the structure of a home by building extensive tunnel systems inside wood. They prefer damp wood, which is commonly found near windows, sinks, or basements. Although they don’t eat the wood, their burrowing causes real damage. Outdoor nests often develop in stumps or mulch piles, while indoor nests are in hidden, moist areas. The most active time for carpenter ants is during the night, and their presence indoors often signals a need for immediate pest control measures.
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.
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 Do I Know If Ants 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.
What Are the Most Common Ant Species Found in Homes?
Homeowners in Canada often encounter ants like odorous house ants, carpenter ants, pavement ants, and pharaoh ants indoors. Odorous house ants seek out sweets, 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.
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.
How can I Prevent Ants in My House?
Keeping ants out starts with prevention. Store all food properly, clean up crumbs and spills right away, and don’t leave pet food out. Seal cracks and entry points around windows, doors, and your foundation. Also, reduce excess moisture by repairing leaks and trimming vegetation near the 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 Richmond, BC 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 Richmond, BC 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 Richmond, BC?
The cost of ant extermination in Richmond, BC 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.
