Ants enter homes looking for food, water, and shelter. Crumbs, spills, pet food, and even moisture from leaks can attract them.

Common household ants include black ants, sugar ants, carpenter ants, and fire ants. Some species, like carpenter ants, can damage wood structures.

Signs of an infestation include trails of ants, visible nests, tiny piles of dirt or sawdust (for carpenter ants), and food contamination.

While most ants are harmless, some—like fire ants—can bite or sting, and others—like carpenter ants—can damage wooden structures. Ants can also contaminate food.

Ants leave behind invisible pheromone trails to guide others to food sources. Even after cleaning, these trails can remain, leading new ants to the same location.