Pest Control for Ants in Temecula, Fallbrook, Oceanside, and the Surrounding Areas
There are an estimated 22,000 species of ants on the planet, forming approximately 15-25% of the animal biomass. In addition to their massive numbers, ants thrive in almost any ecosystem. Combine that with their highly organized colonies, and it is no wonder you will find them on just about every landmass on earth. Like other insects, ants require food and water to survive. And, living in Southern California, especially in the Temecula, Murrieta, Fallbrook, and Oceanside regions, the dry, arid climate makes perfect conditions for ants to seek water in homes and yards. That is why ant infestations are most common during dry, hot summer months when ants are in search of water in and near sinks, dishwashers, showers, and around toilets.
What Types of Ants are in Temecula, Fallbrook, Oceanside, and the Surrounding Areas?
Argentine Ants
The most common ant found in Southern California is the Argentine ant. Originally from Argentina, these ants came to the United States via boats in the 1800s. The Argentine ants thrived in the Southern California climate and quickly eliminated the other native ant species to become the dominant species. Estimates show that 95% of the ants along the California coastline and 80% of the ants specifically in Temecula, Fallbrook, Oceanside, and surrounding areas are Argentine ants. Consistent pest control treatments are necessary to control Argentine ants, and spraying once a year does little to control these invasive pests. If you notice Argentine ants in your home or business, consider working with the experienced professionals at Knockout Pest Control & Termite in Temecula.
Crazy Ants
Crazy ants, also from Argentina, are named for their erratic movements. Like the Argentine ants, the Crazy ant is well suited for the California climate and may quickly become an invasive species of ants, creating a supercolony in California. Crazy ants are oddly attracted to electrical current and are known to short circuit electrical systems. If you notice ants near electrical equipment, call a professional, like the team at Knockout, right away to eliminate the colony.
Harvester Ants or “Red Ants”
The California Harvester is a red-brown ant found in dry regions of Southern California. Harvester ants do not invade homes; instead, they inhabit playgrounds and lawn areas. Harvester ants usually make nests with multiple entrances in exposed, sandy soil, and they give painful stings that can cause anaphylactic reactions. Sightings of Harvester ants may require immediate ant control from trained, experienced professionals.
Little Black Ants
At 1.5-2mm in length, Little Black ants are scavengers, typically found in places where food is kept. At Knockout Pest Control & Termite, we provide ant control services to eliminate Little Black ants.
Odorous House Ants
The Odorous House ant color ranges from brown to black and is about 1/8 of an inch long. When crushed, these ants leave a smell, giving them the nickname stink ants. Odorous House ants prefer damp areas like pipes, sinks, dishwashers, showers, and toilets. The Odorous House ant often avoids store-bought bait stations, making professional ant control treatment essential.
Red Imported Fire Ants
Common to Southern California, the Red Imported Fire ant constructs earth mounds where they nest. Red Imported Fire ants use a venomous sting, causing a burning, fire-like sensation when defending their nest. Fire ant stings are especially dangerous to people with bee allergies and can cause anaphylactic shock. Like the Harvester ants, immediate ant control is necessary if you have Red Imported Fire ants.
Ant Control Services
Knockout offers one-time pest control treatments, or you can sign up for regular maintenance to keep ants away. If you are dealing with an ant infestation, one of our Knockout Pest Control & Termite technicians can apply an insecticidal barrier, reducing the ant population and giving you control over future invading ants. To receive ultimate year-round ant control, Knockout offers monthly, bi-monthly, and quarterly pest control maintenance plans. With quarterly ant control maintenance plans, if you run into an ant pest control issue between visits, a Knockout Pest Control technician will come to your home or business to address the problem at no cost to you.
