Ant Control

Identifying Ants vs Termites

Several kinds of ants exist. They range from 1/32 to almost an inch in length. Their coloration varies: yellowish, light brown, reddish-brown, brownish-black or jet black. Ants in general have three body parts: head, thorax and abdomen. Most ants do not have wings but sometimes swarming winged ants are confused with swarming, winged termites. To help distinguish an ant from a termite look for:

  • The ant’s body to appear pinched in at the waist. Termites do not have an apparent waist.
  • Ants have elbowed antennae and termites have straight bead-like antennae.
  • The forewings on an ant are larger than the hind wings, and those of a termite are all the same size.
  • Ants’ wings are either transparent or brownish and termites’ wings are milky-white or grayish and are longer than the body.
  • Ants have firmly attached wings and termites’ wings can be easily removed or can fall off.
Prevention

Ants are drawn to moisture and wood. Prevent infestations by removing standing water, trimming plants, sealing cracks, and storing wood away from your home. Brezden Pest Control in San Luis Obispo educates customers through online resources, newsletters, and monthly articles to provide tips and effective ant prevention strategies.

Life Cycle

Ants live in colonies in soil, crawlspaces, under concrete, gardens, or wood. Colonies have queens, males, and workers. Argentine ants, common from California to Florida, form large colonies near food, emit a musty odor when crushed, and contaminate food and water, though they are not directly harmful to health.

  • Always on Time

    Very professional and knowledgeable about all insects and rodents! The tech is always on time and very friendly. At my last 2 residences our landlord has picked up the bill for the service. But, when that day comes that I have to pay for it I will know who to call.
    Anna .T

  • Satisfying Ant Removal Service

    Ray was dispatched to help us get rid of ants at our Cambria home. He was thorough and professional. We weren’t sure whether the problem was completely gone after a week and Brezden encouraged having him come back at no charge to make sure rather than have us wait or wonder. All gone now! Thanks Ray and Brezden…
    ykanti