Crazy ants are a small ant species that only grows to about an eighth of an inch long. The tawny crazy ant (also known as the raspberry crazy ant) has a thin yellow-brown, segmented body and long antennae.
While identifying crazy ants by their appearance is possible, the easiest way to tell them apart from other species is by looking at how they move. They get their name because they don't move in a straight line like many other ants. Instead, they move in erratic and chaotic patterns. This disorganized, seemingly random way of getting around makes them seem "crazy".
Why Are Crazy Ants Such A Problem?
All ant species can contaminate food sources, but most aren't dangerous to people and don't cause property damage. The crazy ant, however, can cause both property damage and health risks.
First of all, they are known to get into electrical equipment, creating shorts and other dangerous and expensive damage. They have large colonies and can invade this equipment in overwhelming numbers.
Secondly, crazy ants can spread the bacteria and pathogens from their body and legs to food and any surfaces they come in contact with. Animals are also at risk as crazy ants are known for crawling into and around the eyes and ears of livestock and small animals.
How Can You Prevent Crazy Ants?
Since crazy ants can damage property and are unsafe to have around for health reasons, knowing how to prevent them is key, especially important because crazy ants are difficult to remove once an infestation begins. They are an invasive species that can reproduce quickly and grow into large colonies, often referred to as super colonies, and can quickly overwhelm a property.
To reduce the risk of an infestation, follow these five steps:
- Seal any areas where ants can get inside with caulk to fill up cracks and crevices in the home's walls and foundation.
- Install door sweeps and weatherstripping.
- Since crazy ants are attracted to food, place lids on outdoor trash cans to keep them from foraging.
- Trim shrubs, trees, and bushes away from the outside of the building.
- Patch up weak areas around where wires and pipes enter your home or business.
What Is The Best Way To Get Rid Of Crazy Ants?
Since crazy ants create large colonies quickly, removing an infestation without professional help is nearly impossible. The easiest and most effective way to eliminate crazy ants and keep them from coming back is with assistance from the experts at All-Safe Pest & Termite. We work with you to create individualized, high-quality service plans, and we provide both residential and commercial pest control to the Plano area.
Discover more about our ant control programs or schedule a free estimate by giving us a call or using our online contact form.