University at Buffalo's Colony-Elimination Ant Team

Contact spray disrupts the trail temporarily but rarely reaches the nest.

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

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. A recurring perimeter visit every season is usually enough to keep new colonies from establishing near the foundation.

Bait sits in enclosed stations or protected areas specifically to limit pet and child access. It also helps to keep mulch pulled back from the foundation a few inches, since that alone reduces bridge points significantly.