Hamilton College's Colony-Elimination Ant Team

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

Look for bigger ants and fine wood-shaving debris — a byproduct of their excavation.

Colony elimination via bait typically takes one to two weeks as it spreads through the nest.

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.

Bait sits in enclosed stations or protected areas specifically to limit pet and child access. Trimming vegetation that touches the siding removes an easy bridge past any barrier treatment.