Tiny black ants making way into your homes or business is very common, especially in Florida where the humid climate creates a perfect breeding ground for them. If you’ve noticed them moving in lines in your homes, you’re not alone. Tiny black ants have been a common problem for almost everyone in Florida. But, not to worry! There are effective ways to get rid of them and prevent them from coming back.
Appearance of Black Ants
|
Size |
1/8 to 1/4 inch long |
|
Body Structure |
Segmented body with a distinct head, thorax, and abdomen |
|
Antennae |
Long and slender |
|
Common Types |
Includes carpenter ants and pavement ants, each with slight variations |
What do Tiny Black Ants Eat?
Proteins:
They consume protein sources like insects and seeds etc.
Fats:
Some species will eat fatty substances, which provide them with essential energy.
Plant Material:
They may also feed on plants such as nectar, fruits, and seeds.
Sugar:
They are attracted to sweet eatables, such as honeydew or other sugary foods.
Why Are There Tiny Black Ants in My House?
If you are noticing a few ants, it is not a problem. But if you have started seeing a huge number of tiny ants daily, there is surely something in your home that is attracting them.
Some of the reasons why you might find tiny black ants in your house include:
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- Food Sources: Ants mostly enter homes to feed themselves. Make sure to keep food stored in tight containers and empty your dustbins daily to avoid ants.
- Cracks and Gaps: Ants use tiny cracks in walls, windows, and foundations to enter your home. Any small gap can be the cause of ants’ infestation.
- Nesting Habits: Many types of ant nest in walls behind baseboards, or other hidden spots within your home.
How to Identify Tiny Black Ants?
There are different types of ants in Florida, Let’s see how we can identify them depending on their characteristics or appearance.
Common Types of Tiny Black Ants in Florida
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- Odorous House Ants
These ants are dark brown to black and about 1/8 inch in length. They release unpleasant odor when crushed. They are mostly found in kitchens searching for food. - Ghost Ants
Ghost ants are very small in size and have a pale or translucent abdomen, making them look like tiny black ants. They are usually found in moist areas like bathrooms, kitchens, water pipes, and around plumbing fixtures. - Argentine Ants
Argentine ants are dark brown to black and a bit larger than odorous house ants. They are highly aggressive and can quickly establish large colonies inside your home. - Carpenter Ants
They are bigger than other ants in size and often appear black. These ants can cause structural damage as they build nests in wood.
- Odorous House Ants
How to Get Rid of Tiny Black Ants in Your House?
There are several methods to eliminate ants from homes, both natural remedies and chemical solutions. However, combination of treatment and prevention is important to get rid of ants for a longer term.
Identify Entry Points
Ants usually enter through cracks, gaps, or crevices in doors or windows. Conduct a thorough inspection, sealing any potential entry points with caulking or weather stripping.
Remove Food and Water Sources
To discourage ants from entering your home, remove what attracts them, i.e. food. Ensure your kitchen is clean and food is stored in airtight containers. Focus on areas near sinks and plumbing, as ants are attracted to moisture.
Use Natural Remedies
Let’s look at some natural methods to deter ants:
- Vinegar and Water: A Solution with equal quantity of white vinegar and water can be used to clean surfaces where ants have been spotted. Vinegar breaks their scent trails, making it harder for them to navigate.
- Lemon Juice: Like vinegar, lemon juice can also break scent trails. Spray it along door frames, and baseboards.
- Cinnamon and Peppermint: Both cinnamon and peppermint oil act as natural repellents. Sprinkle cinnamon near entry points or use cotton balls soaked in peppermint oil to create a barrier.
Apply Ant Bait
Ant bait is one of the most effective ways to eliminate ants because they target the whole colony. Baits work by attracting worker ants, who carry the poison back to the nest, eventually killing the queen and other ants. Let’s explore the effective way to get the best results:
- Place bait stations in areas where ants are commonly seen.
- Avoid using sprays or repellents near bait stations, as this may deter ants from taking the bait.
- Be patient! Baits take a few days to work but can lead to complete eradication.
Call a Professional Ant Exterminator
Still facing an ant problem? It is probably the time to call a professional ant exterminator as they know how to get rid of ants completely and protect your homes from future infestations. If you live in central or south Florida, Dave’s pest control is the best option. We offer ant control service in Orlando, Port Orange, Daytona, Lakeland, Winter Garden, Delray Beach, Pompano Beach and other areas of Florida.
How to Prevent Tiny Black Ants from Coming Back?
Once you have treated the infestation, it is important to take preventive measures to stop them from coming back.
Here are some tips to follow:
- Seal all the entry points
- Store food in airtight containers
- Maintain cleanliness
- Remove moisture sources
- Regular inspection and pest control
Conclusion
If you understand the basics of ant nature and follow prevention methods and removal strategies, you can keep them away for good. Dealing with tiny black ants in your house can be challenging, but addressing this issue in a timely manner will help you maintain a clean and safe living environment.
