If you are having problems controlling ants in your Monmouth or Ocean County home, you may be plagued by an ant super colony.
What is an ant super colony?
Typically, ants form colonies with only one nest and one queen. However in some species such as Argentine ants and odorous house ants, when nests fill, the queen takes a few workers a short distance from the original nest to form a new one, which then becomes part of the same colony. Eventually super colonies are formed, consisting of several nests and several queens – not to mention an enormous ant population. Workers can travel between the various nests regardless of relation, allowing ants to spread over large areas as well as wipe out other ant species in their environment.
How fast do super colonies spread?
Incredibly fast – up to 30 meters in one direction each year. Nest can be packed as densely as one per square meter, resulting in pesky and persistent ant problems.
How do I eliminate an ant super colony?
- Locate the trail.
When possible, try to seal off access points into and out of your home. In addition, remove or find alternate storage for items attracting the ants. - Identify the offending ant.
This will help you determine the possibility of a super colony, as well as how to properly eliminate the pest. - Find and treat the nest.
Consult a professional to ensure success – the complete elimination of the offending ant and its colony.
Are you sitting on an ant super colony? Contact Allison Pest Control today for a free pest inspection.