North Bay’s blend of residential neighborhoods, surrounding forests, and nearby waterways creates an ideal environment for ants to thrive. As temperatures rise, common ant species like carpenter ants and pavement ants often enter homes and businesses in search of food, moisture, and shelter. This seasonal activity frequently leads to frustrating infestations for residents and property owners throughout the area.
If you’re facing an ant problem, Abell Pest Control in North Bay is here to help. Our experienced technicians conduct thorough inspections to determine how ants are gaining access, identify what’s attracting them, and apply effective treatments to eliminate the entire colony. We prioritize long-term solutions to ensure ants don’t return.
By accurately identifying the type of ant, our team can design a targeted treatment plan to completely eradicate the infestation and prevent future problems.
Homeowners dealing with carpenter ants may not notice the damage until it becomes severe. These pests are drawn to moist wood, especially in basements, attics, or near leaking plumbing. Rather than consuming wood, they hollow it out to establish colonies. Entryways often include tiny cracks, damaged shingles, or soft wood near windows. Outdoors, carpenter ants’ nest in dead trees or logs. Indoors, look for them in hollow doors or behind baseboards. Prompt carpenter ant control is essential to avoid long-term structural issues.
Small and dark brown in appearance, pavement ants typically nest under concrete surfaces such as sidewalks and foundations. They’re able to enter homes through narrow gaps in doors, windows, and siding. While they aren’t known for causing damage, they can bite or sting when provoked. Long lines of foraging ants are often the first noticeable sign of an issue.
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.
These tiny, pale-yellow ants are a persistent indoor pest. Known as Pharaoh ants, they reproduce rapidly and form colonies with multiple queens. When disturbed, they break into smaller colonies and spread through buildings. They prefer warm, humid spots like kitchens, bathrooms, and inside walls. Especially common in hospitals, apartments, and restaurants, they contaminate food and can carry harmful bacteria to sterile areas.
Aggressive and highly invasive, European fire ants are a growing concern for homeowners and gardeners alike. These ants establish nests in moist, shaded areas such as lawns, flower beds, under stones, and inside plant pots. Their stings are not only painful but also can cause lasting irritation.
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.
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.
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’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 North Bay. 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, or your money back!
How much does ant removal cost in North Bay?
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.
