Ant problems are a frequent concern for homeowners and businesses in Traverse City, Michigan, especially during the warmer spring and summer months. The area’s mix of residential neighborhoods, wooded surroundings, and proximity to Grand Traverse Bay creates ideal conditions for ants to thrive. Residents in areas like Slabtown, Old Mission Peninsula, and the Boardman neighborhood often deal with infestations from species such as carpenter ants, pavement ants, and pharaoh ants.
Abell Pest Control proudly provides professional and reliable ant extermination services in Traverse City. Our licensed technicians begin with a thorough inspection to identify the ant species, locate entry points, and evaluate the extent of the infestation. Based on these findings, we apply effective, and species-specific treatments to eliminate the ants and help prevent future invasions.
Carpenter ants are larger than many ant species and are known for building nests inside wood. Although they don’t eat the wood, they chew through it to construct tunnels. Damp and decaying areas, like basements or behind leaking walls, are prime targets for carpenter ant nests. Outdoor nests are typically found in rotted logs or wet firewood. Once inside, they set up in places like hollow doors or kitchen cabinets. If you want to prevent carpenter ants, sealing entry points and addressing moisture issues are essential first steps.
Citronella Ants (Large Yellow Ant)
The larger yellow ant, better known as the citronella ant, builds nests under logs, stones, or next to foundations. They are drawn indoors during mating swarms, attracted to damp spaces. Feeding primarily on honeydew from root-feeding insects, they can be a frustrating yet harmless household visitor.
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.
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.
With heads significantly larger than their bodies, big-headed ants are easy to spot. These ants usually build their nests outdoors, in soil beneath stones, foundations, rotting wood, and stumps. Although they don't destroy structures, the large size of their colonies can make control efforts frustrating and prolonged. When outdoor conditions become unfavorable, they may move indoors in search of better shelter. They are a common pest in subtropical zones worldwide.
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 Traverse City. 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!
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.
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.
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.
How much does ant removal cost in Traverse City?
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.
