Notice any tiny brown ants crawling out of your electrical outlets lately? There’s a relatively new ant spreading across the Southeast, and it’s displacing the fire ant as one of the most destructive to personal property.
Known for its quick movement and erratic behavior, the tawny crazy ant (nylanderia fulva) is native to South America. Tom Raspberry, a pest control operator, discovered them in Texas in 2002. It’s now spread across state lines and caused infestations in at least 27 counties in Florida. Locally, it’s becoming an important part of pest control in Tampa.
These ants are known to infiltrate pipes, air conditioning units, fuse boxes and vehicles, according to reports by the University of Florida and Scientific American. Tawny crazy ants are especially attracted to electronics, such as computers and televisions.
The University of Florida suggests several things homeowners can do to reduce their risk of exposure:
- Wash dirty dishes
- Wipe up spills
- Store refrigerated foods in sealed containers
- Put away pet food bowls until it’s time to eat
- Take out the trash, and keep the bins clean
- Rake up and remove fallen leaves, branches and yard debris
- Trim or replant any trees, flowers and shrubs that touch your home
- Seal potential entry points on the exterior of your home with caulk or expandable foam – look around windows, doors, plumbing and utility penetration points.
Once an infestation is established, tawny crazy ants are difficult to control. That’s why the university suggests contacting a professional pest control in Tampa company, like Consolidated Pest Control. Contact us today for an estimate and personalized treatment plan.
