The Essential Guide to Ants: Facts, Behaviors & Identification Tips
Learn how to identify and manage ants with our expert guidance, so you can take care of your home with confidence.
Types of ants Aptive treats
Ant facts every homeowner should know
Ant colonies can contain thousands of ants
What you see is only a small portion of the colony. Most ants live hidden in walls, soil, or foundations, which is why infestations can grow quickly if not addressed.
Ants use scent trails to find food
When one ant discovers a food source, it leaves behind a pheromone trail that guides others — leading to long lines of ants inside your home.
Food and moisture attract ants indoors
Crumbs, spills, pet food, and even small water sources like leaks or condensation can draw ants inside, especially during warmer months.
How we handle ant control
Aptive’s ant control experts apply targeted treatments to areas where ants are most active, helping eliminate trails and reduce activity at the source. We take the time to identify entry points, nesting areas, and foraging patterns so ant treatment is placed where it will be most effective for your home and property.
Every home is different, which is why our ant control experts take a thoughtful, customized approach to ant control. We listen carefully to your concerns, inspect your property for signs of ant activity, and develop a targeted plan to help protect your home and yard. We’re dedicated to providing you with peace of mind so you can enjoy your home more comfortably. Connect with your local Aptive team for specialized ant control and experience our exceptional service with confidence.
Did you know? Some ant species can lift and carry objects up to 10–50 times their own body weight—making them one of the strongest insects relative to their size*.
If you’re dealing with ants in your home, give Aptive a call and let our team help you take your space back.
What do ants look like?
Most ants are small insects with segmented bodies made up of a head, thorax, and abdomen, along with six legs and elbowed antennae. They typically range in color from black and brown to red or yellow, depending on the species. Common household ants are usually very small and can enter through tiny cracks and gaps around doors and windows. Their bodies are built for foraging and carrying food, often traveling in visible trails. Some ant species, like carpenter ants, are larger and may have more robust bodies, while others remain nearly microscopic in size.
What are signs of ant infestation?
The most obvious indicator of an infestation is the presence of active foraging trails, which are distinct lines of ants traveling toward food or water sources. You may also discover small mounds of soil or “ant hills” near foundation cracks or under baseboards, which signal a nearby colony.
What causes an ant infestation?
An ant infestation typically begins when ants find reliable sources of food, water, and shelter inside or around your home. Crumbs, spills, and improperly stored food can quickly attract foraging ants, while moisture from leaks or high humidity makes kitchens, bathrooms, and basements especially appealing. Small cracks in foundations, gaps around windows and doors, and other entry points allow ants easy access indoors. Ant infestations are more likely to develop when attractants and entry points are readily available.
How to get rid of an ant infestation?
To get rid of an ant infestation, begin by identifying where ants are entering and what is attracting them. Clean surfaces regularly, sweep floors, and store food in sealed containers to eliminate accessible food sources. Seal cracks and gaps around windows, doors, and foundations to block entry points, and address moisture issues by repairing leaks and reducing humidity. Ant bait stations placed near active trails can help control the colony over time by targeting the source. Aptive’s ant control services target severe or recurring infestations and provide lasting results with a plan tailored to your home.