The days are lengthening, birds are singing in the trees, and flowers are budding… it’s spring on Long Island. Unfortunately, along with the glories of the season come springtime pests – including the annual invasion of multiple ant species.
Ant Intelligence
Dealing with an ant infestation can be frustrating. Just when you think you’ve eliminated them, they mysteriously pop up in a different location and work in concert to avoid your extermination efforts. You think surely, they’re gone… but there they are, marching in lockstep into your pantry.
How can these tiny insects with minuscule brains be so good at thwarting your efforts to get rid of them? The answer lies in how those tiny brains work together to manifest an outsized level of intelligence.
How Big Can Ant Colonies Get?
When you see two or three ants in the house, you may not think much of it. Crush them, clean them up, and they’re gone, right? Unfortunately… where there are a few ants, there are almost certainly many more in close proximity.
The Pros and Cons of Carpenter Ants
When you think of carpenter ants, it’s entirely possible nothing positive comes to mind. But did you know they serve an important role in the ecosystem, and have some benefits for gardens as well? Carpenter ants are fascinating creatures…as long as they don’t come too close to your home or property.
What Are Odorous House Ants?
You see a few tiny ants crawling toward a forgotten breakfast crumb on your counter. Without thinking, you squish them with a paper towel, and suddenly there’s an unpleasant smell of rotting coconut. Yuck! You have odorous house ants. [Read more…]
