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Understanding common Australian ant behaviour
Ants can quickly become a nuisance when they invade your home, but learning about ant behaviour and how to prevent ant infestations is essential to maintaining a comfortable living space.
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Ants come in various types in Australia, each with distinct behaviour patterns. Common ants in Australia include coastal brown ants, black house ants, white-footed black house ants and red imported fire ants.
Signs of an ant infestation include seeing trails of ants and discovering ant nests in secluded areas of your home.
- Coastal Brown Ants:Â These ants are known for their aggressive foraging behaviour. They form large colonies and often invade homes in search of food. They are attracted to sweet substances and can quickly infest kitchen areas.
- Black House Ants: These ants are commonly found nesting in wall cavities and under floors. They are attracted to sugary foods and grease. Black House Ants are known for their persistent trails and are often seen marching in a straight line along surfaces.
- White-Footed Black House Ants:Â These ants are nocturnal and prefer nesting in dark, moist areas such as wall voids and under sinks. White-Footed Black House Ants are omnivorous, feeding on a variety of foods, including insects and sugary substances. These ants can establish satellite colonies within homes, making them challenging to eradicate.
- Red Imported Fire Ants:Â These ants are highly aggressive and known for their painful stings. They build large mounds in outdoor areas and can enter homes in search of food. Red imported fire ants are attracted to electrical equipment and can cause damage to air conditioning units and electrical wiring.
Identifying common entry points for ants
It’s vital to identify and seal off common entry points for ants to stop them from infestating your home. Exterior entry points may include cracks in your foundation or gaps around doors and windows. Interior entry points could be openings around pipes, vents and electrical outlets.
Preventive measures to deter ant activity
Keeping kitchen and other regularly used surfaces clean and free of food debris is crucial for deterring ants. Sealing cracks and crevices with caulk or silicone can prevent ants from entering your home. Additionally, storing food properly in airtight containers helps eliminate food sources for ants.
Natural treatments for ant control
Essential oils like peppermint and tea tree oil can act as ant repellents for people who prefer natural alternatives to control ants. A solution of vinegar and water sprayed around entry points can also deter ants from entering your home.
Dealing with outdoor ant nests
Ants can establish nests outdoors near your home, eventually making their way indoors. Undertaking an ant control treatment by a trained pest control technician can safely remove these outdoor ant nests, with increased effectiveness over DIY ant treatments.
Conclusion
Understanding ant behaviour and taking preventive measures can help stop ants from entering and infesting your home. Having a professional pest control technician treat your home for ants can help prevent further ant infestations in and around your home.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How can I tell if I have an ant infestation?
A. Signs include seeing ant trails and finding nests in dark areas.
Q. Are DIY solutions as effective as professional pest control?
A. DIY methods can help, but it’s best to consult a professional for severe infestations.
Q. How often should I inspect my home for ants?
A. Monthly inspections are recommended, especially during warmer months.