Ants
Ants
Ants are among the most common household pests found in homes and businesses across London. While a few ants may not seem like a problem, they often indicate a nearby colony that can quickly grow in size. Learning how to identify different types of ants and recognize the early signs of an infestation can help you prevent larger pest problems.
The two most common ant species found in the UK are the Common Black Ant and the Pharaoh Ant. Each species has different nesting habits, behaviours, and treatment requirements.
Common Black Ant
The Common Black Ant is the species most frequently seen around homes and gardens. Workers are dark brown or black and measure approximately 3.5 to 5 mm in length.
Black ants usually build nests in soil, under paving stones, along pathways, and sometimes inside walls or beneath floors. They are attracted to sugary foods and are commonly seen in kitchens during the warmer months.
Signs of a Black Ant Infestation
- Long trails of ants
- Small soil mounds near paving or gardens
- Ants around food or sugary spills
- Nests near walls, patios, or driveways
- Increased activity during spring and summer
Brown Ants (Pharaoh Ants)
Pharaoh ants are much smaller than black ants, measuring around 2 mm in length. They are light yellow to reddish-brown in colour and prefer warm indoor environments such as hospitals, apartments, hotels, kitchens, and commercial buildings.
Unlike black ants, Pharaoh ants can reproduce throughout the year, making infestations difficult to control without professional treatment.
Signs of a Pharaoh Ant Infestation
- Tiny yellow or light brown ants indoors
- Ant trails near kitchens and bathrooms
- Activity around food storage areas
- Multiple small nesting sites
- Continuous activity throughout the year
Ants enter properties in search of food, water, and shelter. Crumbs, sugary foods, pet food, leaking pipes, and small cracks around doors or windows can all attract ants. Once a food source is found, ants leave scent trails that guide the rest of the colony.
Keeping surfaces clean and sealing entry points can help reduce the risk of infestations.
If you have noticed ant trails or suspect an infestation, our experienced technicians provide reliable Ant Control Services across London. We use safe and effective treatments to remove ant colonies and help prevent future infestations.
Looking for information about other pests? Explore our Cockroach Identification guide to identify common cockroach species and learn when professional pest control may be needed.
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