How To Keep Ants In Southern California Out Of Your Stored Food

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How To Keep Ants In Southern California Out Of Your Stored Food

If ants invade your home and stored food, you’ll need pest control in Southern California. These bugs are a significant threat. Germs that make humans sick are all over them. In addition, various subtypes can sting or bite you and ruin your property. Fire and Argentine ants in Southern California are a part of that group.

Quality pest control can halt the development of voluminous ant populations. It’s easy for them to invade a dwelling; they only need foundation gaps. Learn about effective ant control solutions in Southern California and how Excel Pest Management can help.

ants eating food off plate

How Can I Tell What Type Of Ants Are Invading My Southern California Home?

Again, Argentine and fire ants are two common ant species in the Southern California region. The Argentine class is 3/25 of an inch long. Their hairless bodies are brown, and their queens and males have wings. Outdoors, you may see them in soil, organic matter, logs, and trees. Sidewalk and pavement breaks are gathering spots for them also.

Fire ants are quite distinctive. The 3/50th to 1/5th of an inch long bugs are a bright reddish-brown color. Stingers are at their tails. They will turn dirt into mounds and damage your landscaping. These pests ruin plants and grass sod too. If they prick you, you may have a severe allergic reaction. Becoming sweaty or nauseous is your cue to go to the hospital. Typical symptoms include itching, redness, skin inflammation, and burning sensations. You can expect to scar after the area heals.

You might be able to catch these ants coming into your residence at the following locations:  

  • Flooring
  • Utilities
  • Windows
  • Foundations
  • Doors

One of the most significant issues with ants entering your space is the bacteria they carry. It is on their skin, urine, feces, and saliva. They can taint surfaces and the food they crawl on. You could have experiences with E. coli, salmonellosis, and the like.

Will An Ant Infestation Go Away On Its Own?

Argentine and fire ants in Southern California will not go away independently. They have no reason to leave your yard or domicile. Both have plenty of the elements they need to flourish—for instance, humidity, moisture, food, and places to nest. Many people make sprays with natural ingredients, like water, vinegar, citrus, and essential oils. While these agents may have a repelling effect, they won’t stand up against an infestation. 

Are Ant Baits Effective To Use In My Home?

Just as homemade sprays will only produce mild results with an ant invasion, the same goes for commercial baits. Several bugs may die, but not enough for an infestation to end. Another issue with these items is that they have to be strategically located. The average person doesn’t know where they should go. Plus, ant cores can be challenging to reach. It’s best to leave elimination to the professionals and not spend money on goods that won’t work. Insecticides aren’t a viable option either. They have similar downsides and could be toxic.

I Have Ants Terrorizing My Home And Getting Into My Food!

If you want to stop ants from troubling your home and getting into food, take these steps:

  • Seal holes in foundations and utility lines. 
  • Put sweeps on all exterior doors.
  • Mow the lawn and trim greenery often. Push plants away from the property.  
  • Get up food spills immediately.
  • Use airtight canisters for food and trash. 
  • Scrupulously clean the kitchen regularly.
  • Remove garbage and vacuum.
  • Repair moisture glitches.

We at Excel Pest Management have industrial-grade baits, sprays, and barriers that aren’t available in retail shops. Moreover, our Argentine and fire ant treatments in Southern California are safe and affordable. Call today for a free inspection!

Tags: ants | ant control options | southern california ants |

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