Texas is home to a wide variety of ants, from the infamous fire ants to the large carpenter ants that can cause damage to your home. Whether you’re dealing with tiny black ants or the larger red ants, it’s important to understand the different species and how to handle them. In this guide, we’ll explore the most common types of ants in Texas, what makes each one unique, and how you can get rid of them.
Common Types of Ants in Texas
Fire Ants (Red Ants) in Texas
One of the most notorious and aggressive species in Texas is the fire ant, often referred to as red ants. These reddish-brown ants are known for their painful bites and stings, which can cause allergic reactions in some individuals. Fire ants build large mounds that are easy to spot in yards and fields, particularly during the warmer months. They tend to swarm when disturbed, and their stings can be painful, making them a significant concern for homes with children or pets. Fire ants are most active in spring and summer and are a common sight across Texas, particularly in areas with warm, sunny climates.
Though their stings are the primary threat, fire ants can also cause structural issues by nesting in electrical equipment or other areas that may be sensitive to disturbance. Their presence often signals an infestation, making it important to address the colony quickly to avoid further spread.
Carpenter Ants in Texas
Carpenter ants are big, black or dark-colored ants that are commonly found in Texas. Unlike termites, they do not feed on wood but burrow through it to create nests. These ants are typically found in moist or decaying wood, and although they do not bite or sting like fire ants, they can cause significant damage to wooden structures over time. If left unchecked, carpenter ants can weaken beams, joists, and other structural elements of a home.
Carpenter ants are not particularly aggressive, and their bites are rare. However, they can be a major nuisance if they invade your home or wooden structures. They are most commonly found in kitchens, basements, and attics, especially in homes with high humidity or moisture problems.
Sugar Ants and Black Ants in Texas
Sugar ants are small, light-colored ants that are particularly attracted to sweet foods and sugary liquids. These ants often invade kitchens, pantries, and any other areas where food is readily available. While sugar ants are not aggressive and do not bite, their presence can be frustrating as they can quickly infest a home in search of food.
Black ants, often referred to as odorous house ants or thief ants, are another common species in Texas. These ants are small, dark-colored, and typically found indoors. They are attracted to food sources like sugar, grease, and pet food. Black ants are usually harmless but can become a nuisance when they form trails inside your home. They are known for their characteristic odor when crushed, which is how they got their nickname.
While neither sugar ants nor black ants are dangerous, their ability to infest homes quickly and in large numbers makes them one of the more common pest problems in Texas.
Harvester Ants in Texas
Harvester ants are another common species in Texas, particularly in rural or agricultural areas. These ants are named for their habit of collecting seeds and other plant matter to bring back to their nests. Harvester ants can sometimes appear to be red and black, depending on the species, with reddish heads and dark-colored abdomens. They are typically found in open fields, gardens, and areas with sparse vegetation. Harvester ants build large nests that are often surrounded by piles of dirt, and their colonies can be quite large.
While harvester ants are not typically aggressive, they can bite if they feel threatened. Their bites are not as painful as those of fire ants, but they can still cause irritation. These ants are most active during the spring and summer months, and their large nests can be a nuisance in outdoor spaces, especially for gardeners or landscapers.
Winged Ants in Texas
Winged ants are reproductive ants that leave their colonies during the mating season. They can be from various species, including fire ants, carpenter ants, and harvester ants. Winged ants are often seen during warm months, particularly after a rainstorm, as part of their reproductive cycle. These ants do not pose a direct threat but can signal an active colony nearby. If you see winged ants in or around your home, it’s important to check for signs of an infestation, as they may indicate that a colony is preparing to establish a new nest.
Winged ants are more likely to be a problem if they come from aggressive species like fire ants. These ants can establish new colonies quickly, so it’s crucial to address the colony before it spreads further.
How to Get Rid of Ants in Texas
When it comes to getting rid of ants in Texas, calling a professional ant exterminator is the best first step. While DIY solutions may seem tempting, ants can be persistent and tricky to eliminate, especially with species like fire ants, carpenter ants, and sugar ants. At Alta Pest Control, we take a proactive approach to get rid of your ants and keep them from coming back—so you don’t have to worry about them ever again.
Why Choose Alta Pest Control for Ant Control?
At Alta Pest Control, we’re not just about getting rid of ants—we’re about elevating pest control to provide a better experience for our customers. If you’re dealing with ants in Dallas, Fort Worth, San Antonio, or Austin, Alta Pest Control is your go-to solution. Here’s how we elevate pest control:
- 48-Hour Response Guarantee: We understand that ant infestations can quickly become a problem, so we guarantee a response within 48-hours of your call. You won’t be left waiting.
- 100% Satisfaction Guarantee: Our job isn’t done until you’re completely satisfied with the results. If you’re not happy with our service, we’ll make it right—guaranteed.
- Thousands of 5-Star Reviews: With thousands of 5-star reviews from happy customers, you can trust that we’re the best at what we do. Our reputation speaks for itself.
- Reliable and Knowledgeable Technicians: Our expert technicians are trained, reliable, and equipped with the knowledge to tackle even the toughest ant problems. We don’t just solve the problem; we ensure long-term results.
- Friendly, Effective, and Environmentally Conscious Solutions: We believe pest control shouldn’t be a hassle. Our technicians provide friendly, professional service using eco-friendly methods that are safe for your family and pets while still being effective.
Our Proven Process for Ant Control
Contact us today to schedule an appointment! Simply mention the type of ants you think you’re dealing with, and we’ll get you scheduled. Within 48 hours, one of our expert ant exterminators will arrive to treat your property.
Here’s what we do:
- Treatment of 3 ft up and 3 ft out from the base of your home: We ensure the entire perimeter of your property is treated, addressing entry points and any potential trails leading ants inside.
- Targeting Ant Hills and Carpenter Bee Nests: We’ll also locate and treat any visible ant hills or carpenter bee nests, eliminating the source of the infestation.
- Quarterly Follow-Ups: To ensure ants don’t come back, we’ll return every quarter for ongoing treatment and prevention. If ants do return before your next scheduled treatment, just give us a call, and we’ll come out to re-treat your property for free.
We take care of the problem for you, providing long-term protection with our commitment to 100% satisfaction.
Why DIY Solutions Don’t Work
While DIY methods like baiting, using sprays, or sprinkling diatomaceous earth may seem like a quick fix, they often only provide temporary relief. Many people try to tackle the problem by using store-bought ant bait or over-the-counter sprays, but these methods typically fail to eliminate the entire colony. For instance, fire ants and carpenter ants are persistent species that require targeted treatments to reach their nests and destroy the source of the problem. DIY solutions usually treat only the surface level, leaving the colony intact and allowing it to come back.
Additionally, many DIY products can be unsafe or ineffective, wasting both your time and money. Some sprays may not reach deep enough into the nests or be strong enough to eliminate the ants completely. Others may be harmful to pets or plants.
Professional pest control is more effective because we have the right tools, experience, and knowledge to eliminate ants at their source. We don’t just treat the surface level—we target the entire colony, ensuring long-term results and a pest-free home.
Prevention Methods: Let Us Handle It for You
If you try to manage ants on your own, it can be a hassle. You’ll need to seal entry points, maintain a spotless home, and schedule regular treatments. But with Alta Pest Control, you don’t have to worry about any of that.
We take care of everything for you—so you can focus on what matters most. When you choose Alta, you’re choosing a professional team that’s dedicated to eliminating ants and preventing future infestations. You don’t have to worry about DIY fixes or keeping up with regular treatments. We’ll handle it all, guaranteed.
Contact Alta Pest Control Today
If you’re dealing with ants in Dallas, Fort Worth, San Antonio, or Austin, don’t wait—Contact Alta Pest Control today. With our expert team, guaranteed satisfaction, and years of experience, we’re here to make sure your home stays ant-free.
Contact one of our branches below to schedule your ant control service or to get a free consultation. Let us take care of the ants so you can live life elevated.
Branch Location:
Alta Pest Control
2100 N Hwy 360 Unit 1502,
Grand Prairie, TX 75050
(469) 795-0832
Branch Location:
Alta Pest Control
2100 N Hwy 360 Unit 1502,
Grand Prairie, TX 75050
(817) 767-3054
Branch Location:
2013 Wells Branch Pkwy Suite #301
Austin, TX 78728
(512) 832-0304
Branch Location:
Alta Pest Control
11549 Old Perrin Beitel Rd, Unit 205
San Antonio, TX 78217
(210) 940-0623
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