Leading pest control provider Rentokil is warning people to be on the lookout for ants this summer as it recorded an 80 per cent increase in callouts in May, compared to the same period last year.
The company has said Galway had the second highest number of callouts for ant infestations last month, accounting for 16 per cent of the total, with just Dublin (25 per cent ), recording more.
As we enter the summer months and the weather improves, the company is encouraging people to be aware of ant activity as the insects are more likely to enter homes and businesses in search of food.
Ants are a common summertime pest. While they do not pose the same health threats as other pest insects, they can become a nuisance if an infestation goes untreated. If ants find a food source on a premises, they can lay down pheromones to attract other ants, which can rapidly turn a small infestation into a much larger one.
“Ants are usually at their most active during the summer months, and these insects can become an issue for home and business owners in the form of infestations," said Richard Faulkner, advanced technical field consultant with Rentokil. "A small ant problem can quickly become a much larger one. There are a number of steps which property owners can take to curb the presence of ants, but if in doubt, we would encourage anyone to seek the services of a professional pest control provider.”
Rentokil’s tips to prevent the presence of ants on your premises include:
Clear up food and liquid spillages immediately.
Sweep up any food crumbs from under your kitchen appliances and units.
Store your food in airtight containers wherever possible.
If you have a pet, clear away any food that isn’t eaten straight away.
Block off entry points for ants by sealing all cracks and crevices around your doors and window frames.
In the garden, keep your compost enclosed and make sure all rubbish bins have tightly sealed lids.
To find out more about ant infestations visit www.rentokil.ie/ants
