Pavement ants
- Order: Hymenoptera
- Class: Insects
- Species: 14,000+
- Length: 3 to 8 mm
Pavement ants
Pest control
Sign of presence
Pavement ants, common in Quebec, nest mainly outdoors, but also venture indoors in search of food and shelter.
Visible movements of ants in groups
Unlike other ant species, which remain discreet, cobblestone ants are easy to observe. They often move in organized groups, forming veritable “highways” on sidewalks, cobblestones, or even inside your home. These movements are more frequent in spring, when the colony becomes more active after the winter. You can spot them near kitchens, windows or garbage cans, always on the lookout for food. Their organized, collective behavior is a clear sign of their presence.
Small mounds of earth or sand
Outdoors, these ants build their nests under cobblestones, stones or at the base of walls. These nests can often be identified by the small mounds of earth or sand they leave behind as they dig their galleries. These mounds, although discreet, frequently appear around driveways, sidewalks or paved structures, and signal intense activity nearby. If you spot these signs, it’s highly likely that a colony has settled in your immediate environment.
Intrusion into food and around garbage cans
Pavement ants are polyphagous insects, meaning they consume a wide variety of foods. They frequently enter kitchens to gain access to sweet, fatty or protein-rich foods. Perforated packaging, crumbs left on counters or exposed food can quickly become targets for these ants. What’s more, they are often attracted to waste garbage cans, especially if these are not properly closed or regularly cleaned.
Traces left by their droppings
Indoors, paving ants leave droppings in the form of small black spots or halos on walls, floors or surfaces where they frequently pass. These traces, although discreet, can accumulate if the infestation is significant. They are a clear sign of sustained activity and should be taken seriously, as they indicate the proximity of a nest or access point.
Prevention
Preventing an infestation of pavement ants requires active vigilance, as these small insects quickly become invasive in a favorable environment.
Caulking
Pavement ants exploit cracks, gaps or openings around doors, windows and foundations to get into homes. Carefully inspect your home for these weak spots, and use caulking, silicone or wire mesh to fill them. Pay particular attention to areas where pipes or cables penetrate walls, as these are common passages for these insects. Proper maintenance of foundations and exterior structures can greatly reduce their ability to enter.
Exterior cleaning
Pavement ants prefer environments where they can find shelter and materials to build their nests. To limit their numbers, start by uprooting old, decaying tree stumps in your garden. Avoid accumulating wood, either outdoors or in basements, as this provides an ideal habitat for these insects. Also, make sure your lawn is regularly mowed and that tall grass is eliminated. A well-maintained lawn significantly reduces the areas suitable for colonies.
Food preservation
Poorly protected foodstuffs are a major source of attraction for pavement ants. Make sure all your foodstuffs are stored in airtight plastic or glass containers. Clean kitchen surfaces regularly, removing crumbs and food residues, and don’t leave food lying around, even for your pets. When it comes to garbage garbage cans, use ones with tight-fitting lids, and clean them frequently to avoid odors that could attract these insects.
Act quickly
If you spot nests, such as mounds of earth in paving stones or gardens, treat them immediately with suitable solutions. You can also use sticky strips to trap ants in their identified areas of passage. These traps are particularly effective in areas where ants frequently enter. In the event of a serious infestation, we recommend calling in a professional. A pest management expert will be able to locate colonies, use approved baits or treatments, and make sure the ants don’t come back.
