What Does A Crazy Ant Look Like?
Crazy ants are an invasive species that have migrated from South America. They look different than other ants and can be identified by:
- 1/16 to 1/8-inch length
- Red-brown color
- Long segmented bodies
- 12-segmented antennae (as viewable under a microscope)
While these ants are distinct in physical appearance, their behavior is even more distinguishable. In fact, it’s from this behavior that they get their name.
Why Are They Called Crazy Ants?
The term "crazy ant" doesn’t bode well, and for good reason. These ants are not only a pest, but a menace to livestock and pets. They will quickly take over yards and invade houses in droves. Crazy ants move jerkily and spontaneously, leading to their name. They can travel in large groups, up to millions of ants together. They have been known to bite, and they set up nests in all types of locations, from dry to wet.
The main reason for their name is the way they move. Whereas other ants form regimented lines, crazy ants dart erratically. In large numbers, this can make them even scarier. Pets try to avoid swarms of these insects because of their bite and incessant numbers. Luckily, the bite will be milder than bites from other ants.
Another reason these ants are crazy is their sheer numbers. They usually travel in uncontrollable swarms. Add to this their ability to nest up anywhere, and you have a formidable pest. Crazy ants enjoy warmth, so when things get cooler, they will enter the house without hesitation. Typical ant control for homeowners won’t work with crazy ants. We recommend professional assistance.
Do You Have Crazy Ants In Your Potted Plants?
All ants like to protect smaller insect populations that grow on plants. Aphids, mealybugs, whiteflies, and soft scales all produce honeydew while they feed on leaves. This honeydew is delicious for ants, and they work hard to keep their honeydew supply coming. Control the population of honeydew producers like mealybugs and aphids to avoid inviting ant populations.
Crazy ants will find their way into everything, even electrical boxes. They will be no stranger to potted plants, especially as they can live in soil.
Ways to deal with crazy ants in your potted plants are:
- If you find them in plants inside the house, take the plant outside immediately.
- Put the potted plant in a tub or bucket.
- Make an insecticidal soap solution of one tablespoon for each quart of water.
- Fill the tub or bucket until the solution is just over the surface of the soil in the pot.
- Soak for 20 minutes.
Crazy ants are infamous for avoiding baiting traps. Normal ant control solutions don’t work. But if you soak your potted plants in insecticidal soap, you’ll kill the small bunch of them there. If you’ve seen them indoors, you will most likely need the pest control professionals at BUGWORKS Termite & Pest Control for ant control in your house.
Total Ant Control For McAllen Residents
Controlling crazy ants requires different treatments and methods than controlling any other species. Crazy ants avoid most baits and are quick to move into new locations. The best bet is to prevent them from the beginning.
For outdoor ant control:
- Seal any cracks, crevices, or gaps in your foundation.
- Use caulking to fill in gaps around windows.
- Make sure all branches and shrubs are trimmed back to not touch the house's exterior.
- Remove any debris, unnecessary wood, fallen leaves, or dead trees.
- Store your trash in tightly sealed trash cans. Keep these far from the house.
Make sure you move faster than crazy ants move. Ant control in McAllen is the only way to get rid of large infestations.
At BUGWORKS Termite & Pest Control, we have given top-rated service since our opening 18 years ago. We provide same-day service from certified professionals for crazy ants or any pest in the McAllen or Rio Grande area. We are confident we’re the number one ant control near you, so don’t wait. Contact us.