Is the seasons change and the days grow shorter, many homeowners in Massachusetts are finding themselves dealing with an unwelcome visitor: ants. These tiny creatures may be small, but they can cause big problems if left checked. From March to October, ants are a common pest control issue throughout the May State, with the most problematical species being carpenter ants and porous house ants. In Massachusetts, carpenter ants are particularly troublesome due to their ability to tunnel through wood and cause significant damage to homes and buildings.
These ants can grow up to 12 inch in length and are typically black or dark brown. They’re attracted to sweet substances like honey, sugar, and fruit, as well as moist environment. To keep carpenter ants at bay, homeowners should focus on sealing any cracks or services around windows, doors, and pipes, as well as removing any standing water or food sources. Porous house ants, on the other hand, are a different story altogether.
These ants are much smaller than their carpenter cousins, growing only about 18 inch in length. They’re typically brownish-red in color and give off a distinct rotten coronet-like odor when crushed. Porous house ants are attracted to sweet or sticky substances, as well as pet food and crimes. To keep these ants from taking over your kitchen or living room, make sure to clean up any pills or masses promptly, store food in sealed container, and remove any sources of moisture or humidity. With a little bit of vigilance and some basic ant control technique, Massachusetts homeowners can enjoy their homes without the haste of sky ants.
