St. John’s, Newfoundland, is characterized by its coastal climate and diverse landscapes, including urban areas, parks, and natural green spaces. These environments, combined with the region's seasonal weather patterns, create favourable conditions for various ant species to thrive, particularly during spring and summer.
St. John’s experiences cold winters, wet springs, and warm summers, which often drive ants indoors where they seek warmth, moisture, and food sources. Nearby parks and green spaces provide ample opportunities for ants to nest close to residential and commercial properties.
Effective ant control in St. John’s starts with proper identification. Ants in established residential neighborhoods may differ from those near prairie lands or park areas. Because each species behaves differently, accurate identification allows us to customize treatment plans that are effective and long-lasting, tailored to St. John’s unique environment.
Carpenter Ants are wood-nesting insects that often invade homes seeking damp, decaying timber. Unlike termites, they don’t eat wood, they hollow it out to create nests. These ants usually target high-moisture zones like basements, under bathtubs, or behind window frames. They may enter through damaged wood, foundation cracks, or unsealed roof edges. Outside, they nest in logs or rotting trees; inside, they prefer wooden voids near water sources. Seeing these ants in your home, especially in the evening, may point to a hidden carpenter ant nest that needs prompt attention.
Pavement ants are small, dark brown insects commonly found nesting beneath sidewalks, driveways, and foundation slabs. They often enter homes through small cracks around doors, windows, and sliding door tracks. While they’re not considered dangerous, they can bite or sting if disturbed. Long, visible trails of ants are often the first sign of an infestation, making pavement ants a frequent nuisance in urban environments.
Pharaoh Ants are tiny, yellowish ants that form large colonies with multiple queens. They thrive in warm, humid indoor environments such as wall voids, kitchens, and bathrooms. Particularly problematic in apartment buildings, healthcare facilities, and foodservice settings, these ants are known for contaminating food and surfaces, making them a persistent nuisance.
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.
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.
Which Ant Species Are Most Commonly Found Indoors?
In Canadian homes, ants such as carpenter ants, pavement ants, and pharaoh ants are frequent invaders. Carpenter ants’ nest in damp or decaying wood, pavement ants often build colonies in cracks around sidewalks and foundations, and pharaoh ants can spread rapidly throughout a building. Correctly identifying the species is essential for effective pest control.
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?
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?
For small problems, you might try traps or ant bait from a store. However, repeated infestations or large colonies usually require professional help. Abell Pest Control has trained technicians who can identify the species, locate the source, and provide long-lasting ant control solutions.
How Much Does It Cost to Remove Ants in St. John’s?
The cost of ant extermination in St. John’s 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.
