Ant Pest Control

an ant

Experts in Ant Elimination in MissourI

Expert Pest Control Services In Missouri

Ants are the number one nuisance pest in the United States. There are several species, and the method of ant control depends on what kind of ant problem you have. The experts at Steve’s Pest Control can determine which species of ants you’re dealing with and how to get rid of them for good.

ants on wooden rustic table

What Causes an Ant Problem?

Carpenter ants are a big problem to Missouri homes

Food is the primary attractor of ants. Whether it’s crumbs on the floor, unwashed dishes in the sink, or trash that doesn’t go out as often as it should, ants will come for it. A couple of ants can quickly populate and turn into colonies. If you are noticing an ant problem, it is important to immediately ensure all food is tightly sealed and to call Steve’s Pest Control to take care of your ant problem.

Health Risks Surrounding an Ant Infestation

Whether it’s crumbs on the floor, unwashed dishes in the sink…

Ants main goal when invading your home is to find food and water sources. The biggest issue related to an ant infestation comes with their potential to contaminate food. Bacteria will attach to the bodies of ants and spread as the ants crawl through cupboards and other surfaces within your home. Diseases such as salmonella and staph have been known to follow ant colonies. When an ant carrying such a disease comes into contact with the food you eat, it puts you at risk for becoming sick. For these reasons, it is very important to get control of your ant problem as soon as you realize you have one.

Ant Pest Control Process

Ants are Social insects that reside in colonies

Getting rid of ants can be tricky, as they quickly populate and are difficult to spot. Ants are social insects that live in colonies that number in the hundreds of thousands. To properly eradicate the problem, the entire colony must be eliminated – not just the ones you can see. So a repellent spray may make things better for today, but it will not be a permanent solution.

Fortunately, Steve’s Pest Control has the expertise necessary for comprehensive ant elimination. Locating ant nests is essential to solving the problem. These nests can be on the interior, exterior, or both. Our experienced technicians will come to your home, evaluate the situation, and implement a plan of action to remove the colonies in a timely manner. Visit our Pest ID Library to Learn More About Ants

Common Types of Ants in Missouri

Each species of ant requires a different protocol

Missouri is home to several types of ants, ranging from minor nuisance pests to destructive structural threats. Each species of ant requires a different protocol for treatment, due to their varying behaviors, nesting habits, and potential to cause damage. The most common ants found throughout Missouri include Carpenter ants, which can damage wood structures by excavating galleries for their colonies; Odorous House ants, known for their distinctive smell when crushed; Pavement ants, frequently seen in driveways and sidewalks; and Fire ants, which have painful stings and build distinctive mounds. Additionally, Missouri properties may encounter Field ants, Acrobat ants, and Pharaoh ants, each presenting unique challenges for homeowners and pest control professionals. Understanding the specific species is crucial for implementing effective control measures, as treatments that work for one type may be ineffective or even counterproductive for another. Here is a list of the most common types of ants in Missouri:

For more information on ants, visit our identify a pest page!

FAQs

Common Questions about Ant Pest Control

What are the signs that I might have an ant problem in my home?
Signs of an ant problem can include seeing ant trails, small piles of dirt or debris near openings, and finding ants in your kitchen or pantry.
Yes, you can prevent ant infestations by keeping your home clean, storing food in airtight containers, sealing cracks and openings, and maintaining a clean yard.

The pest control professionals at Steve’s will identify ant species based on physical characteristics, behavior, and nesting locations. Carpenter ants are destructive and carpenter ant pest control by a professional is recommended.

Carpenter ants can damage wood structures, while pharaoh ants are known to transmit diseases. Identifying the species helps assess potential risks.
Store food in airtight containers, clean up crumbs promptly, fix any leaks, and ensure trash is sealed tightly to reduce food sources.
While DIY methods can help temporarily, professional ant pest control services are often more effective in eliminating ant colonies entirely.
Once the ant colony is identified and treated Steve’s Pest Control will check back with the property 2-3 times to make sure the colony doesn’t come back or relocate.

Contact Steve’s Pest Control to assess the situation and develop a tailored plan for safe and effective nest removal.

The time required varies based on the extent of the infestation, but it usually takes a few weeks to completely eliminate an ant colony.

Yes, it’s essential to follow the recommendations of the ants pest control professional to prevent future ant infestations, which may include regular inspections and sealing entry points.