Combatting an Invading Red Ant Colony

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In summary, the red ants invaded a hostel room and were very aggressive. The ants seemed to prefer my wardrobe and unused clothes, so I cleaned the room twice and tried to wash away the pheromone trail, but that didn't work. The ants were back in a couple of hours. Insecticide seems to have done the trick, and the hostel administrator should have called the exterminator. The source of the ants is through small gaps in the windows and doors. The ants are back, so I need to clean the remains. I like the idea of having a giant anteater as a pet.
  • #1
siddharth
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For the past couple of days, I've been fighting a painful battle with a red ant colony which has invaded my hostel room. They look like fire ants and are very aggressive. The ants seem to prefer my wardrobe and unused clothes for some reason. I've cleaned the room twice and tried to wash away the pheromone trail, but that didn't work and the ants were back in a couple of hours.

So, I conceded defeat for the day, left the hostel and went home. Tomorrow I'm going to bring the heavy artillery.
 
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  • #2
Reminds me of the chapter from "Suerly You're Joking, Mr.Feynman," although he was a brave man. ;)
 
  • #3
neutrino said:
Reminds me of the chapter from "Suerly You're Joking, Mr.Feynman," although he was a brave man. ;)
Indeed. There's no way I'm going to attempt ferrying the ants, I've been bitten enough.
 
  • #4
Ha Ha 10 char
 
  • #5
just search where they come from(hole, or the colony itself), and spray it like hell?
 
  • #6
get some ant eating spiders in there :smile:
 
  • #7
Anttech said:
get some ant eating spiders in there :smile:
Looking at your name, I think you are a specialist in these matters. :biggrin:
 
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  • #8
Who runs the hostel? It sounds like they need to bring in an exterminator. If they're in your room and persistently returning, they're likely in other rooms too. If you can find a source though...a crack or hole in the wall or under a window, sealing the source should do it too.
 
  • #9
When it comes to bugs in and around my place I practice a scorched Earth policy. First step, and usually the only one required: Sevin Dust. :devil: It's relatively inexpensive and easy to apply. Just don't breath it. :yuck:
 
  • #10
siddharth said:
For the past couple of days, I've been fighting a painful battle with a red ant colony which has invaded my hostel room. They look like fire ants and are very aggressive. The ants seem to prefer my wardrobe and unused clothes for some reason. I've cleaned the room twice and tried to wash away the pheromone trail, but that didn't work and the ants were back in a couple of hours.

So, I conceded defeat for the day, left the hostel and went home. Tomorrow I'm going to bring the heavy artillery.
This would be a good choice: Ant exterminator
 
  • #11
I would just redirect them somewhere else into someone else's room.

Plant a bag of sugar underneath someone else's bed and that should keep the ants busy for awhile!

Just kidding. :)

I vote Exterminator like everyone else.
 
  • #12
All you need is some poison that the ants will bring back to their colony, share, and then die. Go to Home Depot or Lowes, talk to a guy there. I would look for ant poison called "Amdro," I have used it with much success in the past.

You must be smarter than the ants, young padawan :cool:
 
  • #13
Do they have home depot in india? :rofl:
 
  • #14
What's home depot? A retailer?

I have to wait a day before I can claim victory, but insecticide seems to have done the trick. The hostel administrator should have called the exterminator, but he couldn't find one and told me that I'll have to cope with it. As for the source, they enter through the small gaps in the windows and doors. I found at least 5 trails, each some 3 ants thick. Strangely, only my room seems to be affected. The guys in the adjacent rooms don't seem to have a problem.

Now to clean the remains. I like the idea of having a giant anteater as a pet :biggrin:
 
  • #15
Dang, they are back.
 
  • #16
Try pouring liquid soap into whatever hole they're emerging from. Worked for me.
 
  • #17
Get a flea bomb!
 

1. How can I identify if I have a red ant invasion?

To identify a red ant invasion, look for large groups of red ants moving in a coordinated manner, visible ant trails leading to a food source, and ant mounds or nests. Additionally, if you notice any damage to plants or structures, it could be a sign of a red ant invasion.

2. What is the best way to get rid of a red ant colony?

The most effective way to combat a red ant colony is by using a combination of bait and insecticide. Bait can be placed near the ant trails or mounds and will be carried back to the colony, killing the ants. Insecticide can also be used to directly target the colony and destroy it.

3. Are there any natural remedies for getting rid of red ants?

Yes, there are several natural remedies that can help control a red ant colony. These include using boiling water to pour over ant mounds, sprinkling diatomaceous earth around ant trails, and using a mixture of vinegar and water to repel ants.

4. How can I prevent a red ant invasion in the future?

To prevent a red ant invasion, it is important to keep your surroundings clean and free of food sources. This includes regularly cleaning up any crumbs or spills, sealing food containers, and keeping garbage cans tightly closed. Additionally, sealing cracks and crevices around your home can help prevent ants from entering.

5. Can I remove a red ant colony on my own or should I hire a professional?

The size and severity of the ant invasion will determine whether you can remove it on your own or if you should hire a professional. If the colony is large and widespread, it is best to hire a professional who has the necessary equipment and expertise to effectively eliminate the colony.

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