Ants – Having Them around is Never a Good Thing
Ants, like, termites are considered social insects because they also live in colonies. Their society is based on a hierarchy composed of the queen, soldiers and workers.
There are 22,000 species of ants, of which only 12 500 are successfully classified to date. The common species are either red or black in color. Their average size ranges from 0.75 to 52 millimeters. Their bodies are divided into three sections – the head, the thorax and the gaster.
Habitat
Ants can adapt to a wide variety of climates and environments. There are species found in mountains, forests and other natural places. Most species build colonies in soil while others can thrive in woods such as tree barks. Other species tend to live in residential areas and other structures where they can be near food sources.
Diet
Different ant species have different diets. Most of them are omnivores. They can eat plants and animals, living and dead alike. For this reason, they can also be regarded as scavengers. Species that we usually find in homes are usually attracted by an excess of poorly kept food and sanitary conditions. Their preference for sugar and starch makes them kitchen and dining table regulars.
Threat to Humans
Ants in large numbers are capable of causing extensive damage if not controlled . The carpenter species can damage wooden structures, furniture and fixtures in homes and commercial buildings. These damages are not new to many homes in Nebraska. In fact, there is an alarming increase in ant infestation in many households.
Leaf cutting species are causing significant damage in agricultural lands and even in home gardens. In fact, feed on the leaves of different plants can eventually lead to the plant’s death. In worse cases, colonies can even be built inside the home causing structural damage that is costly to repair .
ABC Termite & Pest Control Omaha & Lincoln, NE
We are local company specializing in residential and commercial pest control. Spiders, ants, termites, mice, and other rodents are just a few of many pests we professionally exterminate in the Lincoln and Omaha area.
