Poplar-Cotton Center's Colony-Elimination Ant Team

Spraying the trail kills foragers but leaves the queen untouched, and can cause the colony to split and relocate.

They're larger than most household ants, often black or black-and-red, and you may notice small wood shavings near baseboards.

Bait transfers through the colony over one to two weeks, so expect a gradual decline rather than an instant stop.

We typically combine spot mound treatment with a wider bait application.

Colony elimination clears the current infestation; a seasonal perimeter program helps prevent a new one establishing. Seasonal exterior treatment is the most reliable way to prevent a fresh colony from moving in after the current one clears.

We place bait away from where pets typically roam, and can discuss specific concerns at scheduling. Trimming vegetation that touches the siding removes an easy bridge past any barrier treatment.