Ant Control Tips - Professional Pest Control Guide

Learn effective strategies to prevent and control ant infestations in your home. Expert tips from professional pest control technicians in New Zealand.

Duration: 1 minute Published: September 15, 2023

Video Transcript

Introduction (0:00-0:10)
Welcome to this comprehensive guide on ant control in New Zealand homes. Today we'll cover the most effective strategies to eliminate and prevent ant infestations using both natural and professional methods.

Species Identification (0:10-0:25)
First, let's identify the most common ant species in New Zealand. The black house ant is the most frequent indoor invader, typically measuring 2-3mm and attracted to sweet foods. Argentine ants are larger, light brown, and form super-colonies that can be particularly challenging to eliminate.

Entry Point Elimination (0:25-0:40)
Ants enter through surprisingly small gaps. Inspect your property for cracks in walls, gaps around windows and doors, and openings where utilities enter your home. Use silicone caulk to seal these entry points, paying special attention to kitchen and bathroom areas where moisture attracts ants.

Effective Baiting Techniques (0:40-0:55)
Professional gel baits are the most effective treatment for ant colonies. Place small dots of bait along ant trails and near entry points. The worker ants will carry the bait back to the colony, eliminating the entire nest including the queen. Avoid spraying over bait areas as this reduces effectiveness.

Professional Help (0:55-1:00)
If you're seeing ants during daylight hours or dealing with multiple species, it's time to call professional pest control. Licensed technicians have access to more effective products and can provide guaranteed results.

Complete Ant Control Guide

Step 1: Identify Your Ant Species

Proper identification is crucial for effective ant control. Different species require different treatment approaches.

Black House Ants

  • • Size: 2-3mm
  • • Color: Dark brown to black
  • • Behavior: Sweet food preference
  • • Location: Kitchen, dining areas

Argentine Ants

  • • Size: 2.2-2.8mm
  • • Color: Light to dark brown
  • • Behavior: Super-colony formation
  • • Location: Outdoor to indoor migration

Step 2: Locate and Seal Entry Points

Ants can squeeze through incredibly small openings. A systematic inspection and sealing process is essential.

Interior Inspection

Check baseboards, window sills, door frames, and areas around plumbing fixtures.

Exterior Inspection

Examine foundation walls, utility penetrations, and areas where different materials meet.

Sealing Materials

Use silicone caulk for small gaps, expanding foam for larger openings, and weather stripping for doors.

Step 3: Strategic Bait Placement

Professional-grade gel baits are the most effective long-term solution for ant control.

Placement

Small dots along ant trails and near entry points

Frequency

Refresh baits every 2-3 days or as consumed

Patience

Allow 1-2 weeks for colony elimination

Step 4: Long-Term Prevention

Maintaining ant-free conditions requires ongoing prevention efforts.

  • Identify common ant species in New Zealand
  • Locate and eliminate ant entry points
  • Use effective baiting techniques
  • Implement long-term prevention strategies
  • Know when to call professional help

Tags

#ants #pest control #prevention #DIY #home maintenance

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