For some people, ants are just an inconvenience within their home but for others, they can be a real nightmare!
In previous years my own Father in Law has become preoccupied and obsessed (More like possessed!) by a dozen or so ants occupying his porch - He would swear there were 1000's. But never the less they have really caused him a great deal of distress. There are a number of ant species found on our shores but the most common one is the Black Garden Ant ( Lasius Niger).
If you are unlucky enough to live in a dwelling with a high sand content around the foundations of the property then you will be probably more plagued than most with ants entering the property. However this said, Black Garden Ants are very common around most homes and businesses. A traditional treatment would be to use powders or barrier sprays to manage the issue. In more modern times a new formulation of ‘gel’ has been developed which the ants take back to the nest which in turn destroys the Queen and the nest and so is more effective than traditional methods.The general problem with ants is that there can be many nests around the property. A treatment early in the year can help to control the colonies.
Another frequently asked question is around flying ants. These generally become more of an issue on the infrequent one-off hot and humid day we so seldom seem to experience in the North West. This issue typically occurs around June, July time and is a result of the new queens getting ready to fly the nest to make new colonies. It’s at this time and point that people tend to experience acute issues which leads to a sharp increase in calls to ourselves.
The key to ant control is early frequent treatment in the spring to keep on top of the problem. We’ve used this method over the last couple of years with my Father in Law’s ant issue, booking him in early for treatment using the gel rather than powders or sprays. This seems to have worked well and thankfully no more frantic phone calls from him!