How to Get Rid of Pharaoh Ants
Pharaoh ants are a nuisance to homeowners. The ants congregate on food and dishes left unattended and can cause some structural damage during nest building. Pharaoh ants are particularly dangerous
Prefer warm indoor spaces, commonly found in hospitals, nursing homes, and residential buildings.
Omnivorous, feeding on proteins, sweets, and fats; highly adaptable to available indoor food sources.
Rapid breeding cycle, undergoes complete metamorphosis, enabling quick expansion of colonies.
Pharaoh ants, known scientifically as Monomorium pharaonis, are a tropical species that have adapted to thrive in temperature-controlled indoor environments across Canada. Common in both residential and commercial buildings, these ants maintain their colonies throughout the year due to the warm indoor conditions. Their ability to adapt to diverse indoor settings makes them a widespread and persistent pest throughout various regions of Canada.
Pharaoh ants are notorious for their ability to spread several pathogens, making them a major concern in healthcare settings where they can contaminate sterile environments and food supplies. Due to their budding reproduction method, they can quickly create multiple subcolonies, making them one of the most difficult pests to control. Their presence can lead to significant issues in sanitation, patient health, and general pest management within facilities.
Pharaoh ants are extremely tiny, with workers are typically about 1.5 to 2 mm long and queens are approximately 4 mm. These ants are yellow to light brown in color, with a darker, translucent abdomen that makes them distinctive. The queens are slightly reddish with enlarged abdomens. Key identification markers include a three-segmented club at the end of their antennae and an evenly rounded thorax, which are crucial for distinguishing them from other ant species.
Pharaoh ants are a serious concern due to their ability to spread diseases such as salmonella and staphylococcus, especially in healthcare settings where they can compromise patient health and sanitation. At home, they pose a significant nuisance and health risk, contaminating food and surfaces. Their complex colony structure and rapid reproduction rates necessitate professional pest control for effective management. Immediate intervention is crucial to control their spread and minimize potential health risks.
Pharaoh ants favor warm, humid conditions found indoors, which are ideal for their survival and colony expansion. These ants are commonly attracted to kitchens and hospitals due to the abundance of food sources and optimal nesting sites such as wall voids, under baseboards, or within insulation. Their small size allows them to exploit tiny cracks and crevices to gain entry into buildings, making any home or facility vulnerable to infestation.
To effectively prevent Pharaoh ants, it’s crucial to maintain excellent sanitation, immediately clean up any food spills, and ensure food is stored in sealed containers. Seal cracks and openings around doors, windows, and building foundations to block entry points. Regular inspections of potential nesting areas and maintaining dry conditions can help minimize the likelihood of infestation. Also, keep trash in receptacles with tight-fitting lids to avoid attracting ants.
If you suspect a pharaoh ant infestation, it is crucial to contact Pestcheck Pest Control immediately after identifying any ants indoors. While seeing one or two may seem harmless, these pests reproduce rapidly under optimal conditions. Our trained professionals will conduct a thorough inspection to locate ant trails and nesting sites, assessing the extent of the infestation and identifying potential entry points into your home or business.
To effectively eliminate pharaoh ant infestations, Pestcheck employs strategic baiting using specialized commercial gel and powder baits that are particularly attractive to these ants. It is important to note that we do not use insecticide sprays, as this can worsen the problem by causing “budding,” where ants create satellite nests in response to perceived danger. Instead, our professionals carefully place baits along identified trails, allowing worker ants to transport the bait back to the nest, which targets the entire colony, including the queen.
The process of controlling a pharaoh ant infestation may take several months to a year, depending on the size of the colonies. After implementing targeted treatments designed to eliminate the infestation at its source, Pestcheck conducts follow-up inspections to ensure that the problem has been resolved. We also provide recommendations for preventative measures tailored to your property, helping you avoid future infestations. Call us today to schedule an inspection and take the first step toward regaining control of your space.
Check out our blogs and articles to learn more about keeping your home pest-free and your family and pets safe! We’re sharing our expert advice and latest news from behind-the-scenes.
Pharaoh ants are a nuisance to homeowners. The ants congregate on food and dishes left unattended and can cause some structural damage during nest building. Pharaoh ants are particularly dangerous
In the food service industry, maintaining high standards of hygiene and food safety is paramount to ensuring customer satisfaction and preventing health risks. However, one significant challenge that establishments face
As our loved ones transition into their golden years, our foremost concern revolves around ensuring their health and comfort. Yet, within the nurturing ambiance of senior living spaces, an often-overlooked
In the life of the modern homeowner, the possibility of a pest emergency is a crisis that often goes overlooked. Pests such as rodents, insects, and various other critters can
Pest infestations often bring to mind images of messy households, but the truth is no premises are exempt, including sparkling clean offices. Pest invasion poses not only health risks but
Pests can be a nuisance in both homes and gardens, causing damage to plants, infesting living spaces, and posing health risks. While traditional methods of pest control often involve the
Pest control is an essential aspect of maintaining a healthy and comfortable home. However, traditional pest control methods often rely on chemical pesticides that can have negative effects on the
When it comes to pest control, timing is everything. With the right strategy and schedule, a homeowner can keep their home free from pests year-round. But focusing pest control efforts
Pest control is an important aspect of maintaining a healthy and clean living environment. It involves the use of various methods to control or eliminate pests such as insects, rodents,
Mon: 9am to 5pm
Tue: 9am to 5pm
Wed: 9am to 5pm
Thu: 9am to 5pm
Fri: 9am to 5pm
Sat: 9am to 12pm
Sun: Closed
Stat Holiday: Closed
COPYRIGHT © 2022 PESTCHECK SERVICES LIMITED – ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.