Where Do Ants Nest During the Winter in Lexington, NC?

Seeing an ant on the kitchen counter during winter months seems odd and can bring up questions about Lexington, NC ant control that our team can help homeowners understand. Ant behavior during colder months depends on the species and what kind of shelter and food they may need. Mosquito Squad Plus of The Sandhills provides pest control options and education for all seasons.

What Happens to Ant Colonies During Winter?

Ants are cold-blooded insects, so colder temperatures slow their movement and feeding as well as breeding. Cold weather doesn't mean colonies die off, but more commonly, it slows down with periodic emergence if the weather is milder enough. Colonies build insulated nests, with different structures depending on the species, but they are well prepared to get through weather changes.

Where Different Ant Species Spend the Cold Months

Carpenter Ants: Inside Wood and Hidden Voids

Carpenter ants are unique in their choice of nest. They seek damp or softened wood to carve out tunnels and nests to breed and rest in. In colder months, they may seek out wood structures close to or in the house in order to benefit from radiant heat. Carpenter ants are one of the larger species, so if a large ant starts showing up in the house, it may indicate damaged wood being nested in. Repairing leaks and checking compromised wood support household pest management by addressing the damp conditions carpenter ants prefer.

Pavement Ants: Under Walkways and Foundations

During warm weather months, pavement ants will build colonies in the soil around and under sidewalks, driveways, foundation edges, and garden pavers. Once cold weather sets in, workers retreat deep into the mounds. They may build nests closer to the house foundation for warmth and forage intermittently in kitchens.

Odorous House Ants: Near Warmth and Moisture

The species of ant is primarily drawn to moisture and warmth, producing a foul smell when crushed. Odorous house ants may nest beneath mulch and fallen wood, but may shift closer to the house and even attempt incursion into walls for warmth.

Fire Ants: Deeper Within Their Mounds

Fire ants typically do not seek shelter inside. They are going to stay outdoors and gather in underground tunnels to cope with temperature changes. Workers will dig deeper into the ground to help conserve heat as temperatures drop. Now, on sunny afternoons, especially if temperatures remain mild, you may see activity near the surface.

Reducing Winter Nesting Opportunities Around Your Home

There are a lot of practical steps homeowners can take to reduce winter nesting opportunities for ants in and around their property. One of the first steps we recommend is keeping mulch and wood piles pulled away from the foundation. When landscaping and mulch are piled against the foundation, it provides ants with protected pathways into the house. Another thing homeowners should do is check weatherstripping and door sweeps; repairing any damage can help limit access to the house.

Indoors, if you see trails of ants, follow them to the source- it could help with more targeted treatment. Keep pantry staples in sealed containers and clean up crumbs and spills quickly to reduce attractants. Our ant control options include Barrier Treatment Plus and Squad Yard Defender, so homeowners have options based on what may be the best fit.

Ask About Lexington, NC Ant Control

Call (910) 387-5983 for a free quote over the phone, or contact Mosquito Squad Plus of The Sandhills to discuss ant control options and the best ways to get ready for winter pest movement.