Identification: Locally there are a variety of ants. Methods of control vary upon type of ant. The most predominate is the Argentine ant. They are light to dark brown in color and measure approximately 1/8 inch for the workers and 1/4 inch for the queen.

Life cycle: Egg-larva-pupa-adult. Life cycle is approximately. 74 days. Eggs hatch in about 38 days. The larval stage averages 31 days, and the pupa stage is completed in 15 days.

Health & property concerns: Workers forage for food along regular paths extending out from the nest and branching out to explore every portion of an area. Foragers may enter houses in large numbers, particularly when conditions outside are too hot or too wet. This ant is adapted to urban and suburban environments, and will persist where other species do not thrive.

Argentine Ant

Control: Sanitation is important for control. They can be difficult to eliminate because they are so dispersed. Identification of the ant determines the process of control and products used.

Preparation for Service: The same considerations apply both indoors and outdoors. Put all open food containers away. If an aquarium is at the location, turn off the filter and cover the tank with a towel. Put all pet and children's toys away, as well as food and water bowls. Pull everything away from the baseboards, except heavy items such as entertainment centers, desks, etc. Be prepared to vacate the house for at minimum of 2 hours.

What to expect after service: After service you will still see activity. This is because the ants are trapped between the interior and exterior of the structure. They are forced to try to come in, where the residual barrier is waiting for them. They will cross the barrier, which will make them appear drunk; shortly after they will die. Sometimes they will reroute, coming in from above to avoid the barrier — this is normal activity. We will then need to spot treat the area as needed. We highly recommend a monthly or bi-monthly program to keep ants under control.
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