Are ants invading your New York home? As the end of summer approaches, ant populations in the Albany and Capital Region are at their peak. With higher ant activity, home infestations become more likely. Are you wondering how to identify and prevent these ants from getting inside? Here’s how to spot common New York ant species and protect your property from invasions.

Common Ant Types in New York State

New York is home to various ant species, including:

• Carpenter ants
• Acrobat ants
• Pavement ants
• Odorous house ants
• Pharaoh ants
• Citronella ants

Each type has unique traits that help in identification, which is essential for effective pest control.

Identifying Black Ants: Are They Carpenter Ants?

Wondering if those black ants are carpenter ants? Identifying carpenter ants is crucial, as they can cause significant structural damage. Here are key characteristics:

• Size: Carpenter ants are typically ¼ to ½ inch in size.
• Color: They are mostly black with a slight reddish tint.
• Distinct Body Shape: Look for a tiny segment between the thorax and abdomen, a characteristic of carpenter ants.

These ants are common in the Capital Region, so knowing these identifiers can help prevent costly repairs.

Identifying Yellow Ants: Citronella vs. Pharaoh Ants

If you’re spotting yellowish ants, you may be dealing with either citronella ants or pharaoh ants. Identifying which is present is important:

• Citronella Ants: Smaller in size and emit a citrus smell when crushed.
• Pharaoh Ants: Slightly larger and can be disruptive, often requiring professional intervention for control.

Accurately identifying these ants will help in choosing the most effective ant control strategy for your Albany property.

How to Keep Ants Out of Your New York Home

While professional ant removal and perimeter treatments are ideal, here are effective DIY prevention tips to keep ants out:

• Seal Cracks: Inspect and seal cracks in basement walls and around pipes, outlets, and air conditioning units.
• Check Weather Stripping: Ensure door sweeps, screens, and weather stripping are intact and functioning.
• Reduce Moisture: Use a dehumidifier in areas with high humidity, like basements.
• Limit Food Sources: Store food securely, clean regularly, and only put down pet food during meals.

By making your home less inviting, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of an ant infestation.

Get Professional Help for Ant Infestations

Now is the perfect time to secure your home and eliminate ant colonies. If you’re dealing with persistent ants in your yard or walls, contact Thomas Pest Services. We are dedicated to quick, reliable pest control and customer satisfaction.

Call us at 518-861-4921 or contact us today for a free inspection and estimate to keep your home ant-free!