Argentine Ant Identification & Prevention

What are Argentine ants?

Argentine ants are a small, non-native species. They are a shiny, dark brown or black color, and the workers grow to about 1/16 of an inch in length. These ants originally came to the United States from Argentina and Brazil. You can identify these ants by their immense colonies and the wide trails they leave while foraging for food. These ants are scavengers and feed on almost anything they come across, but prefer sweets – especially honeydew produced by aphids and other garden pests. When crushed, they produce an unpleasant musty odor.

Are Argentine ants dangerous?

Argentine ants are aggressive, but their bites are not a big concern for people and usually only occur when provoked. Their aggressive nature towards other species of ants often drives native species out of the area. Argentine ants are nuisance ants that invade structures in large numbers, making them hard to control. Because moisture attracts Argentine ants, there may be an underlying moisture problem to address if you find them in or around your house. Like any species of ant, Argentine ants shouldn't be ignored because they contaminate food and spread bacteria over surfaces.

Why do I have an Argentine ants problem?

If Argentine ants are a problem for you, it's because your property is providing them with easy access to food and shelter. These ants prefer to nest in damp areas; when the weather becomes too hot and dry, they will move indoors. They also move inside while foraging for food to feed their massive colonies. Argentine ants travel together in long trails along sidewalks, fence lines, utility lines, and tree branches to gain access to a structure.

Where will I find Argentine ants?

Preferring to build their outdoor nests in damp soil, Argentine ants nest along sidewalks, the foundations of buildings, under logs or landscape ties, or underneath wood or rock piles. Argentine ants that have found their way inside to nest will do so behind walls, behind large appliances, or under floors.

How do I get rid of Argentine ants?

Partnering with Bull's Eye Pest Control is the best way to get rid of Argentine ants and keep them from returning. At Bull's Eye Pest Control, we understand how stressful pest problems are and offer our customers fast response times and superior pest protection. Our highly trained and experienced professionals use only the best products and most advanced treatment methods available. For home and business owners looking to protect their property against Argentine ants and other pests, contact the Southern California pest control experts at Bull's Eye Pest Control and request your free inspection today!

How can I prevent Argentine ants in the future?

In addition to our home pest control and commercial pest control services, keep Argentine ants off your property by using the following prevention tips:

• Caulk any spaces in the foundation and exterior walls, install doors sweeps, and repair holes along the roofline.

• Remove fallen trees and excess piles of wood from your yard.

• Cut back tree branches from the exterior of your home.

• Fix leaky pipes, hoses, and fixtures.

• Do not overwater your lawn, gardens, or plants.

• Use dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels in your home.

• Seal spaces around air conditioners, utility lines, and pipes entering into your home.

• Inside your home, store food in sealed containers or inside the refrigerator, and do not leave food out on counters or tables.