Ants

Ants are one of the most common issues homeowners deal with on a day-to-day basis. There are a variety of species, each with their own concerns and dangers. The following tutorial will provide you with all of the information you need to identify, treat, and solve any ant infestation.

Ant Species Identify Ants Hazards & Dangers Get Rid of Ants FAQ Products for Ants

Common Ant Species

Here are some of the most common ant species found across households in the United States.

Species List

Acrobat Ant
Argentine Ant
Army Ant
Carpenter Ant
Crazy Ant
Field Ant
Fire Ant
Odorous House Ant
Pavement Ant

How to identify Ants

Body Shape: Ants have a distinct three-segment body: head, thorax, and abdomen. A narrow “waist” (petiole) between the thorax and abdomen is characteristic.

Antennae: Ants have bent (elbowed) antennae.

Size: Ants range in size from about 1 mm to 30 mm, depending on the species.

Color: Most ants are black, brown, red, or yellow, but some species may have unique patterns or colors

Legs: Ants have six legs, all attached to the thorax.

Wings: Reproductive ants (queens and males) may have wings, but they shed them after mating.

Acrobat Ant Model

You can use the following model to help you identify an acrobat ant .

Dangers Ants Pose

Here are some of the dangers ant infestations can pose.

Dangers and Hazards

Different species of ants may pose one or many of the following hazards:

property Damage
Bites
Venom
Allergic Reactions
Food Contamination

How to Get Rid of Ants

Apply any of the following treatment steps that are relevant to your ant issues.

Treatment Steps

Clean Surfaces

Clean surfaces in areas with ant activity to remove food, crumbs, and other debris that attract ants. Focus on kitchens, bathrooms, and other areas where food and water are present. Regular cleaning helps prevent ants from finding new sources of attraction and supports your treatment efforts.
Treat Ant Mound

If possible, treat ant mounds or colonies directly with NatureTek products. This targets the source of the problem and significantly reduces ant activity around the home. To locate the colony, follow the trail of ants back to their mound. If the mound is inaccessible, don't worry—NatureTek will still work as ants spread the treatment throughout the colony. Direct treatment speeds up the process, but it’s not essential for effective control.
Treat Problem Areas

Treat areas where ant activity is concentrated, such as the kitchen, bathroom, or near entry points like doors and windows. These areas often have food and moisture that attract ants. NatureTek’s targeted treatments help eliminate ants in these hotspots and prevent future infestations.
Foundation Treatment

Treat the foundation of your home to create a complete perimeter barrier. Spray NatureTek 2 feet up the wall and 2 feet out from the base to create a 4-foot perimeter. This continuous barrier helps keep ants from entering your home through cracks or gaps in the foundation.
Treat Entry Points

Treat around doors, windows, and other entry points where ants may be getting inside. These are common paths for ants, so pay special attention to these areas when applying treatment. This will help stop ants from finding their way into your home.

FAQ

Get more information about ants here.

Why do ant infestations happen?

Ant infestations happen because ants are searching for food, water, and shelter. They enter homes through tiny cracks and gaps, attracted by crumbs, spills, pet food, and moisture. Colonies establish nests nearby and send out scouts to find resources, leading to more ants if food sources are found.
Are ants dangerous?

While many ants are not dangerous, others can pose serious risks. Some species, like fire ants, deliver painful stings, while carpenter ants damage wood structures. Others, like pharaoh ants, can spread bacteria. Even harmless ants can contaminate food and become a nuisance in large numbers.
Do ants bite?

Yes, some ants bite, while others sting. Carpenter ants and sugar ants can bite, but their bites are usually harmless. Fire ants, on the other hand, both bite and sting, injecting venom that causes pain, swelling, and allergic reactions in some people.
How can I prevent future ant issues?

NatureTek subscription plans help prevent future ant infestations by delivering treatments every two months to maintain strong repellent barriers. In addition, reduce ant activity by eliminating food and water sources—keep surfaces clean, store food in airtight containers, and fix leaks. Seal cracks and gaps around doors, windows, and foundations to block entry points and stop ants before they invade.
Does NatureTek work on ants?

Yes, NatureTek works effectively on ants. Our treatments target ant colonies, creating a barrier that helps prevent future infestations. With regular, two-month treatment intervals, NatureTek ensures your home stays protected from ants and other pests, offering a proactive solution to keep your space ant-free.

Best Product for Ants

The best product for solving ant issues is the NatureTek Pro Kit. The products included in that treatment have the residual and transfer effects necessary for long-term control of ants.

NatureTek Pro Kit

Safe, Effective, Affordable, & No-Commitment