Ant Pest Control

Get Your Free Quote*

*Available for most services, call for details.

Call us now 0800 710 010

    Ants

    Ants are a common nuisance in New Zealand, often infiltrating homes and businesses in search of food and shelter. While some ant species are harmless, others can cause significant issues, including property damage and health risks. Understanding the behavior of ants and implementing effective control measures is essential to maintain a pest-free environment.

    Ants pest control

    Common Ant Species in New Zealand

    New Zealand is home to several ant species, each with unique behaviors and potential impacts:

    • Argentine Ants: Recognized as one of the world’s top 10 invasive species, Argentine ants pose a serious threat to New Zealand’s biodiversity. They are honey-brown in color and prefer warm, dry, elevated sites in urban and natural areas. These ants are known for their aggressive behavior and ability to form large colonies, making them particularly challenging to control.
    • White-Footed Ants: These ants are black and can contaminate food, spread bacteria, and create unsightly trails. They are persistent and can be difficult to eliminate without professional intervention.
    • Carpenter Ants: Known for excavating wood to build their nests, carpenter ants can weaken wooden structures, leading to significant property damage. They are larger than other ant species and can be identified by their black or dark brown color.
    Control Ants Around Your Home

    Signs of an Ant Infestation

    Identifying an ant infestation early is crucial for effective control. Common indicators include:

    • Visible Trails: Ants often travel in well-defined trails to and from food sources.
    • Nests: Some ant species build nests in walls, under floors, or in outdoor areas like gardens.
    • Property Damage: Carpenter ants, for example, can cause structural damage by excavating wood.
    Spring Cleaning

    Preventative Measures

    Preventing ant infestations involves several proactive steps:

    • Maintain Cleanliness: Regularly clean kitchens and dining areas to remove food residues that attract ants.
    • Seal Entry Points: Inspect and seal cracks and crevices in walls, windows, and doors to prevent ants from entering.
    • Proper Food Storage: Store food in airtight containers and promptly clean up spills to reduce attractants.
    • Address Moisture Issues: Fix leaks and ensure proper ventilation to eliminate moisture, which can attract ants.
    Ant pest control

    The Life Cycle of an Ant

    Understanding the life cycle of an ant can help homeowners and businesses grasp how infestations develop and the importance of timely intervention. Ants follow a complete metamorphosis, progressing through four main stages:

    • Egg: Fertilized by the queen, the eggs hatch into larvae. Ant species can lay hundreds to thousands of eggs in their lifetime, depending on their colony’s needs.
    • Larva: The larvae are fed by worker ants. At this stage, their growth depends on the food supplied by the colony.
    • Pupa: The larvae form a cocoon, transitioning to the pupa stage. During this period, they develop legs, antennae, and other adult features.
    • Adult: Mature ants emerge, taking on roles as queens, workers, or drones. Queens focus on reproduction, workers maintain the colony, and drones are responsible for mating.

    Understanding the life cycle helps in targeting treatments at the most vulnerable stages, such as the egg and larval phases, for effective pest control solutions.

    How to Get Rid of Ants in Your Office

    The Costs of an Ant Infestation

    An ant infestation can lead to significant financial and non-financial costs if left unchecked:

    • Structural Damage: Species like carpenter ants can compromise the integrity of wooden structures, leading to expensive repairs.
    • Food Contamination: Ants invade food supplies, rendering stored goods unusable. Businesses in food production and hospitality face strict compliance requirements to avoid contamination.
    • Health Risks: The potential for bacteria transfer by ants increases health-related expenses, particularly in sensitive environments like hospitals or food preparation areas.
    • Reputational Damage: For businesses, an infestation can harm customer trust and lead to lost revenue. Negative reviews and public perception issues can be costly to address.

    Investing in professional pest control services, like those offered by Flick, can save substantial costs in the long run by eliminating infestations early and preventing reoccurrence.

    Professional Ant Control Services

    While DIY methods can manage minor infestations, professional pest control services are often necessary for effective and long-lasting results. Flick offers comprehensive ant control solutions tailored to the specific species and severity of the infestation. Our trained technicians utilize safe and effective treatments to eliminate ants and prevent future occurrences.

    Commercial Pest Solutions

    Integrated Ant Solutions

    It is essential for businesses to prioritise the health and safety of their employees and customers. Ants not only pose a health risk but also damage property and reputation. Flick’s professional commercial pest control services provide tailored solutions to prevent and eliminate any pest infestations, ensuring a clean and hygienic environment for everyone. Our regular inspections and treatments help to maintain a pest-free workplace and protect your business from potential pest related damage. Trusting in Flick’s commercial pest control solutions is a smart investment in the long-term success and reputation of any business.

    Learn more here or call 0800 710 010.

    Common Ant Questions

    1. Why choose professional ant control over DIY?

      Constant training ensures that our highly trained technicians always have the most up-to-date information. As a result, they are up-to-date on the best, most eco-friendly methods available. Furthermore, we have access to specialised tools and materials that are reserved for licenced exterminators.

    2. What damage can ants cause?

      Ants are not only an eyesore, but also a danger to humans and property. Ants can cause food spoilage and damage to structures, wiring, and attics. Although they do not spread illness, they may spread dirt and other unsanitary materials. They also have the ability to bite! Since they tend to nest in huge groups, an infestation can rapidly worsen.

    3. When and where are ants most active?

      As cold blooded creatures, ants really appreciate any source of heat. In general, ant populations flourish in hotter, more humid regions, or during the colder months, ants will seek shelter indoors. But they’re really just looking around for food and supplies! Infestation hotspots in the home include the kitchen and bathrooms.

    4. What are the signs of an infestation?

      Until you actually see them, you might not know there is an infestation. Tiny ants hide in cracks and crevices until they’re hungry or thirsty, at which point they emerge to forage. Multiple points of entry need to be sealed in your home. With our treatment, they will be gone for good.

    5. What are ants attracted to?

      Ants seek to areas that are warm and damp. That’s why they spend so much time there. Ants are attracted to the scent of honeydew and sugar, so it’s important to clean up any spills of water or juice very once. Keep perishables in the fridge and use airtight containers or seal bags.

    Common Ant Species

    Black House Ant

    Apppearance

    The body of the black house ant is shiny, and it has only six tiny legs. In general, you should expect a size of about 2.5mm.

    Lifestyle

    The reproductive process of ants is a complex phenomenon that centres on the Colony Queen. The final gender of fertilised eggs is female, while the gender of unfertilised eggs is male. Larvae take about six weeks to develop into fully functional ants, which may soon be invading your kitchen in search of a food.

    Habits

    Throughout New Zealand, black house ants have been seen inside of various buildings. They are attracted to wetness, sugary foods, and even pet feces, so it’s no surprise that they frequently invade homes through the kitchen or garage.

    Coastal Brown Ant

    Apppearance

    On average, a Coastal Brown Ant measures 2.5mm in length and has a brown coloration with a subtle yellow cast.

    Lifestyle

    The complicated process of ant reproduction focused around the colony queen. Unfertilized eggs become male, and fertilised eggs become female. The development of larva into functional ants, who may soon be raiding your kitchen for a bite, takes about six weeks from egg to adult.

    Habits

    The invasive Coastal Brown ant has been found in buildings and dwellings across New Zealand. They are attracted to wetness, sugary foods, and even pet faeces, so it’s no surprise that they frequently invade homes through the kitchen or garage.

    I found Ants! Help!

    Don't worry, we're here to help. Follow these steps to stay safe until help arrives!

    • Call a Professional

      Call Flick Pest Control Immediately.

      If you encounter ants in your home or business, you may be dealing with an infestation. Don’t wait until the problem gets out of hand – we can help protect your property and ensure the health and safety of those around you. Fill out the form below or call 0800 710 010 today.

    • Leave the Ants Alone

      Trust Flick Pest Control to handle the situation

      Our pest control technicians have the knowledge, experience, and tools necessary to effectively and safely eliminate pests from your home or business. Attempting to treat ants on your own can be risky and may not fully eradicate the problem.

      We will and ensure a safe and effective outcome for your property.

    • There May be More!

      Don’t Go Looking Around!

      Flick’s pest control experts will perform a thorough inspection of the property to identify any areas where ants may be present, followed by the development of a treatment plan tailored to the specific needs of the situation. By implementing effective pest control strategies, we can help ensure a pest-free environment for you.

    Book A Service Now

    Book us for an inspection today and safeguard your home!