One or two ants spotted in the kitchen or bathroom could be a sign of serious issues. An ant control specialist can investigate to determine how the insects got into your home and whether treatment is needed to curb infestation. Odorous house ants are a common nuisance in many homes, as the insects emit a foul odor and can transfer bacteria to food. Here’s some information about what type of problem you’re dealing with and how to prevent future issues. 

What Are Odorous House Ants?

The misshapen thorax is one feature that differentiates odorous house ants from other species. The black or brown bugs are also smooth and range from 2.4 to 3.3 mm long. The ants seek out houses for food, often making nests under kitchen floorboards.

A queen populates the colony, while workers and scouts leave the nest to forage for food. They could be found around cupboards, pantries, and counters searching for sweet treats. The pests get their name from the rotten coconut smell produced when their bodies are crushed. The aroma warns other ants of danger. When ants move inside, they can transfer pathogens on their bodies to food while foraging.

How to Prevent & Get Rid of the Insects

Odorous house ants often remain in their nest during the winter and emerge to look for food once temperatures rise. They’re attracted to meat and sugary foods, so don’t leave baked goods, meat, or produce on kitchen counters. Any food that’s not refrigerated should be sealed in airtight containers. As ants need moisture to survive, fix drainage problems outside to eliminate standing water and repair plumbing leaks inside the house. Cracks in the foundation, windows, and doors can also serve as entryways, so seal the vulnerable areas.

A strong dirt smell could indicate an infestation, with colonies ranging from hundreds to thousands of ants. DIY solutions should be avoided, as using insecticides could be dangerous and scatter the bugs to other areas. An ant control provider will locate and remove the colonies and seal access points.

To tackle your bug problem, call the ant control technicians at Bugout Termite & Pest Control Inc in Glen Burnie, MD. With over three decades of experience serving clients in the Baltimore Metro area and membership in the Maryland Pest Control Association, you can trust these exterminators to get ants out of your space and keep them from returning. These professionals also provide bedbug extermination and termite treatment to keep homes safe and comfortable. For ant control, call (410) 760-6065. Find more useful information for homeowners online.