Ants

There are two pest species of ants in London, the first being the garden ant, renowned for being a nuisance species, they can infest and potentially contaminate food and food related products. The second species in the Pharaohs ant is primarily found indoors and are renowned for there habit of infesting hospitals causing potential health and safety problems. There nests are located within cavities and fissures and have been known to exceed 400,000 individuals.

(Lasius niger)

Garden Ant

5 mm long
Queens:15 mm long
Dark brown/black in colouration
Primarily found in and around gardens

Effective control includes a full site survey to determine the extent of the infestation and location of primary nesting sites, the application of an appropriate pesticide. Treatment may include up to 3 visits and proofing if deemed necessary will be implemented to block off ant pathways into the home.

(Monomorium pharaonis)

Pharaoh Ant

2-3 mm long
Yellow/yellow-brown with brown abdomen
Queens: slightly red in colouration/winged

To obtain effective control of the pharaohs ant, a full and vigorous site survey needs to be implemented before treatment is carried out because of the danger of splitting colonies thus further complicating the procedure. After we have monitored and assessed the size of the colony, we proceed with the treatments, up to 5 site visits may be necessary to obtain complete control.