Pharaoh Ants in McAlpin
In the McAlpin area, one of the most difficult and persistent ants to control is the Pharaoh ant. Pharaoh ants have massive colonies with thousands of queens and millions of workers. Containing and eliminating an infestation of pharaoh ants is challenging as they are large and can rapidly splinter and form new colonies once disrupted. Their ability to spread is how they can infest an entire home or building and force other native ants out of the area. Any well-protected area in a structure is suitable for pharaoh ants to nest, but they do prefer gardens and lawns when living outdoors.
Pharaoh Ant Habitat
Pharaoh ants are constantly foraging for foods, including proteins, sweets, and living or dead insects. Their nests are located near a source of water, such as evaporating cooling units or sprinkler systems. When inside a home or business, they will usually have their nest in an inconspicuous area with moisture, such as kitchens, bathrooms, under floors, and behind baseboards. They are commonly found in food-processing facilities, hospitals, and nursing homes and will appear in laundry rooms, boiler rooms, kitchens, and around toilets, pipes, and heating ducts. Pharaoh ants utilize electrical wiring and plumbing pipes to travel from room to room, which allows them to gain access throughout an entire structure.
Pharaoh Ant Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers
While the Pharaoh ant does not bite, they are harmful to people and pets with the dangerous pathogens they spread, including salmonella and streptococcus. They are very small in size, which allows them to access nearly any space. With this access comes the potential risk for contamination to food and food preparation surfaces. Invasions in hospitals and nursing homes can compromise the sterile surgical equipment, operating rooms, and recovery rooms. On top of this risk, most conventional pest control treatments do not mitigate the Pharaoh ant. If a Pharaoh ant infestation is suspected, it is recommended to contact a professional ant exterminator.
