Ant Pest Control

What are they?

There are 41 different species of ant living in the UK. The one that causes most problems for people is the garden or black ant (Lasius Niger), which is 3.5 to 5mm long and dark brown to black in colour.

Black ants usually nest outdoors in lawns, flower beds under paving stones, and in walls.  Although they are not a health hazard, they can be a nuisance as they can find their way into homes in large numbers.  They enter homes in search of sweet foods, getting in through small gaps in masonry, doors and windows.

Ants are not just pests.  They also feed off insects and act as scavengers in the garden.

How do they live?

The queen ant lays eggs in late spring which hatch into larvae after 3-4 weeks.  She rears the larvae for three weeks after which they pupate.  From the pupae emerge the first brood of worker ants which forage for food and tend subsequent broods.  Winged male and female ants emerge between July and August and mating takes place on the wing during this time, after which the males die.  The mated females shed their wings and dig a cell in the soil where they stay until the following Spring.

Can I get them treated?

Yes, treatment can also be carried out professionally by Pest Control technicians, contact us and an appointment can be made. Please note charges may apply.

Good hygiene is also vital to avoid attracting the ants back to food sources.