The Black Garden Ant or Lasius niger builds its nest outdoors, usually in grass or under stones, but will often enter houses in search of food. Worker ants travel long distances looking for food, following trails made by other insects and will gather in large numbers where they find sticky, sweet substances, for example in kitchens where food spills have not been cleared up. Ants can damage food, making it unfit for human consumption. As well as being a nuisance indoors, the black garden ant can excavate around plant roots causing dryness in the soil.

The easiest way to locate a Lasius niger nest is to follow the trails. Food sources need to be identified and protected by ensuring packaging is intact. Ants’ nests must be destroyed in order to control infestations, and it is best to call in professional Pest Control technicians who can ensure that insecticide is applied not just around the nest itself, but at other strategic locations such as windows, ducts and drains. A pest control specialist can also advise on the use of insecticidal bait. Even a small and seemingly insignificant crack in a wall or door may be a major entry point for ants.

The post Controlling Black Garden Ants, Lasius niger appeared first on Pest Control 24/7.