Small black pavement
ants, thatching ants and the large black carpenter ants seem to be everywhere
this year and some of the mating ants with wings have already been out. They
are flourishing in the usual sunny locations — cracks in driveways, under patio
pavers, and of course in wood mulch (their number one built in home). If you
find that they put the “p” in pest, then try reducing their numbers with borax,
diatomaceous earth or any number of those gimmicky retail ant solutions – by spraying
on the anthill or in the cracks were they are sending up sand. To help deter
them from coming inside, spray a little diatomaceous earth near doorways. Many
ants are actually coming inside for water, so eliminate any leaks or drips and
of course don’t leave pet food out after they have eaten. Now the only way to
actually kill of a nest is to illuminate the queen (or queens as many ant nest
will have multiple queens) which usually requires ant specific pesticides. Use caution
when using pesticides, read all instructions for use and location.