How To Stop Ants From Invading Your Home In Summer

If ants seem to appear out of nowhere every summer, you’re not imagining it. Experts say hot weather actually makes ants more active. As entomologist Tracy Ellis explains, “ants are cold-blooded, so their body temperature and metabolism rise along with the outside temperature.” As temperatures climb, ants need more energy to send more workers out searching for food and water. Summer is also the prime season for colonies to grow. According to pest-control expert Gordon Doran, warmer months mean larger colonies and more worker ants roaming around. Homes are especially appealing to ants because they offer food, water, and shelter during heat waves and heavy summer rain. To stop an invasion, start by following the ants’ trail to find where they’re entering. Clean counters, sweep crumbs, seal food containers, and wipe down surfaces to remove the scent trails that guide other ants. Experts also recommend using ant bait near entry points. The workers carry the bait back to the nest, helping eliminate the colony at its source. For long-term prevention, seal cracks around doors and windows, trim vegetation touching the house, and fix leaking pipes or faucets.