There are more than a few types of ants prevalent in Canada, though some inhabit a wide range of habitats and are more commonly seen than others. Most people are familiar with ants through coloration, with black and red at the forefront of many homeowners’ minds. Most ants are black in colour including the most common ones such as the pavement ant, Tetramorium caespitum, the black carpenter ant, Camponotus pennsylvanicus, and the little black ant, or Monomorium minimum. As the name suggests, the smallest is the little black ant, averaging 1.5 mm in length. A highly adaptive species, this ant may build nests in open areas of lawns or buildings, generally in woodwork, masonry, and under carpets. The pavement ant is a little larger, at around 3 mm long, and typically nests under sidewalks, building slabs, or large rocks. The black carpenter ant nests primarily in trees, wooden building structures, and in decaying logs and grows up to 1.6 cm in length.
While not indigenous to Canada, red ants have infested the country over time. Some ants being deemed red in color comes from basic misidentification, as some black ants appear reddish-brown from time to time. The species most commonly referred to as a red ant would be the European fire ant, Myrmica rubra. An aggressive and invasive species, the European fire ant is small, around 5 mm long, with a shiny abdomen covered in fine hairs. The red ant builds nests in places that maintain high humidity, such as along tree roots, under rocks or logs, or in moist soil beds.
Each species of ant may affect homeowners in different ways. The pavement ant and the little black ant both nest in areas that may in turn become detriments to home and business owners. Nests built under structures, including sidewalks and foundations, may erode soil over time causing damage. The black carpenter ant nests in decaying wood by tunneling and expanding colonies. Tunnels lead to structural failure in some cases that may require repair. European fire ants remain aggressive in nature and may swarm and sting when disturbed. The sting is painful in nature and in rare cases may cause allergic reactions. In order to properly deal with ant infestations of any kind, contact a local pest removal contractor to avoid any injuries or structural damages.
You may also like
Top Pests Expected To Trend In The Summer Of 2023
Warm weather is around the corner, which means pests that have been overwintering or hibernating will wake up as well as non-hibernating pests will start making an appearance outdoors. Being prepared for those spring and summer pests can have an impact on how enjoyable your time will be at home or at work. Using industry leading expertise, we have put together a comprehensive list on the top 8 pests expected to trend in the summer of 2023. This list will provide a deeper dive into the impact that pests can have on your property, along with prevention tips to keep your home or business pest-free.
Top 4 Tips For A Pest-Free Halloween
You may have been tricked by the plastic bats and fake spider webs in your neighbourhood, but the pests trying to make your house their home can be the scariest trick during Halloween. From rodents trying to trick or treat inside your home to flies trying to enjoy your jack-o’-lanterns, pests are always looking for ways to get into the Halloween spirit (and your home). Don’t worry, you’re not alone in trying to pest proof your home, as your Orkin Canada Pro has put together a list of 4 quick tips that will help you keep pests out this Halloween.
4 Easy Tips To Pest Proof Your Garden
Spring is the perfect time to get the garden tools out and start getting the garden box ready to grow some vegetables and your favourite flowers. You might do this every year, or this is your first attempt at gardening, regardless of your experience level, we're here to help you keep pests out. Our experienced Ph.d. entomologist Alice Sinia has put together a few easy and simple tips keep your garden pest free.
Practical Ways To Prevent Warm Weather Pests
Spring has arrived, and the pests are already starting to make their usual rounds. As they seek food, water and shelter, your home is like a bug and rodent oasis just waiting to be occupied. But nobody likes surprise invaders in their living space, which is why it’s crucial to recognize the most common threats and take action to prevent them.
Remove pests from your home, and stop them from coming back
We work hard to listen, understand and assess your unique situation. Request a free, no-obligation estimate today for a customized pest program that fits your needs.
Request a Free Home EstimateRequest a Free Business Consultation