Finding a few ants marching across the kitchen counter might seem like a minor annoyance. But ants are rarely solo visitors. When you see a few, there’s often an entire colony nearby—and they’re looking for more than just crumbs.

Why Ants Come Indoors

Ants usually enter homes in search of food, water, or shelter. They’re especially attracted to sweet, greasy, or protein-rich foods, but even pet food or a spill you didn’t notice can draw them in. Changes in weather, like heavy rains or extreme heat, can also drive ants indoors to escape harsh conditions.

Common Types of Ants in Homes

Different species behave in different ways, and knowing which type you’re dealing with can help in controlling them:

• Sugar ants: Often seen in kitchens, drawn to sweet foods.

• Carpenter ants: Larger ants that nest in wood and can cause structural damage.

• Pharaoh ants: Very small ants that can spread bacteria and are hard to control.

• Odorous house ants: Give off a strong smell when crushed.

Why They’re Hard to Get Rid Of

Ant colonies are organized and persistent. The ants you see are usually just workers sent out to gather supplies. The real problem is the queen and her nest, which can be hidden behind walls, under floors, or outside near the foundation. Spraying visible ants often isn’t enough; it can even make the problem worse by causing the colony to split into multiple nests.

Signs You Might Have an Infestation

You may have an ant problem if you notice:

• Regular trails of ants in the same areas

• Small piles of dirt or debris inside

• Hollow or damaged wood (in the case of carpenter ants)

Preventing Ants in Your Home

A few simple steps can make your home less appealing to ants:

• Wipe counters and floors regularly to remove food residue

• Store food in sealed containers

• Fix leaks and reduce excess moisture

• Seal cracks and entry points around windows, doors, and foundations

When to Call a Professional

If ants keep coming back despite your best efforts, it’s likely the nest is well-established. Professional pest control services can locate and eliminate the colony at its source, preventing the problem from recurring.