Why Do Ants Keep Coming Back Even After Treatment?
If you’ve ever dealt with an ant infestation, you’re likely familiar with the frustration of seeing ants reappear even after you’ve treated your home. No matter how many times you clean, spray, or set traps, they always seem to find their way back. This is a common issue for homeowners, but understanding why ants keep returning and what you can do for long-lasting control can make all the difference.
Some of the reasons as to why they keep coming back are:
Using Ineffective or Incorrect Treatments
A lot of the over-the-counter ant sprays or traps only offer a quick fix and do not really get rid of the problem. They simply keep running in circles chasing their tails. So surface sprays are going to kill the little ants you see, but if it’s a spray that isn’t specifically designed to penetrate into the nest and reach the queen, it will just be an ongoing problem. Also, for ants, bait type (using the wrong one may render treatment ineffective).
Determine the ant species nesting in your home and use a product formulated for that species. It is true that some ants are more attracted to sugary baits, while others may prefer protein-based baits. Once you understand what type of food the ants are after, you can choose how best to cure them.
Seasonal Infestations wreak Havoc
There are times during the year when ants become more persistent, namely in late spring and early summer as they search for food and water. By learning about it, you will then have a better understanding of whether or not to adjust your pest control strategy when ants begin reappearing during these specific times, because like I said above, in many cases it is normal since ants behave naturally by searching for food resources and supplying their colony.
If your ants come during ant season, you can try to prevent them. Assuming you use an ant preventative treatment in your home and yard, treat these areas before the ants arrive. We recommend sealing entrance points, removing leaf piles and other clutter around your home, and using outdoor baits or repellents to prevent ants from getting inside.
Long-Lasting Control Requires a Multi-Pronged Approach
As you can imagine, ant infestations are hard to battle and there is no one best way which works on every insect eradication. The key to long-term control is a multi-faceted plan that includes:
– Laying down bait systems directed at the queen and primary colonies.
– Washing away and obliterating scent trails.
– Addressing root causes of food and moisture that attract ants.
– Monitoring any potential ant hotspots and treating your home’s entire outer perimeter to close things off.
If the infestation still remains, don’t wait to hire professional pest control services for expert help.