Ant baits work by attracting ants with a food-based lure, which is combined with a slow-acting insecticide. The ants carry the bait back to their colony to share with other ants, including the queen. As the bait is passed around and consumed by the colony, it gradually spreads throughout the entire ant population and can lead to the elimination of the colony.
The active ingredients in ant baits vary, but common ones include borax, fipronil, and abamectin. These insecticides are low in toxicity to humans and pets and are designed to be slow-acting, allowing enough time for the ants to share the bait with other members of the colony.
It's important to note that ant baits can take several days or even weeks to be effective, as it can take time for the bait to be consumed and spread throughout the colony. Additionally, it's important to use baits that are specifically formulated for the type of ants being targeted, as different ant species have different food preferences and behavioral patterns.
Overall, ant baits are a relatively safe and effective way to control ant infestations, particularly when used in conjunction with other pest control methods such as eliminating potential food sources, sealing entry points, and maintaining a clean environment.

Odorous House Ant Biology 

Odorous house ants (Tapinoma sessile) are a common household pest found in many parts of North America. Here are some key aspects of their biology:

1. Appearance: Odorous house ants are small, typically ranging in size from 2.4 to 3.3 mm in length. They are dark brown to black in color and have a distinctive odor when crushed, often described as a "rotten coconut" smell.
2. Diet: Odorous house ants are omnivores and will feed on a wide variety of foods, including sweets, meats, fruits, and other insects. They are also known to feed on honeydew, a sugary substance produced by aphids and other plant-sucking insects.
3. Nesting habits: Odorous house ants are typically found nesting outdoors in soil, leaf litter, and mulch. They may also nest indoors in wall voids, crawl spaces, and other secluded areas. Colonies can contain multiple queens and can range in size from a few hundred to several thousand workers.
4. Reproduction: Queens can lay hundreds of eggs over their lifetime, which hatch into small larvae that are cared for by worker ants. The larvae develop into pupae, which eventually emerge as adult workers.
5. Behavior: Odorous house ants are known for their ability to form large, transient colonies that can move from one location to another. They also have a tendency to form multiple nesting sites, making them difficult to control.

Overall, odorous house ants can be a nuisance when they invade homes, but they are not considered a major structural pest and are not known to cause significant damage to buildings. Proper sanitation, exclusion measures, and targeted pesticide applications can help to control infestations.

Trelona ATSB (Attractive Termiticide Bait System) is a termite bait system that works by using a combination of a slow-acting toxin and an attractant to lure termites to the bait station. The active ingredient in Trelona ATSB is Novaluron, which is a chitin synthesis inhibitor that prevents termites from properly forming their exoskeleton and ultimately causes them to die.
The bait system works by placing bait stations around the perimeter of a structure or in areas where termite activity has been identified. The bait stations contain wood and a cellulose matrix that is infused with the active ingredient and an attractant that is designed to lure termites to the bait.

​Once termites find the bait station, they consume the bait and share it with the colony through a process called trophallaxis, which is the exchange of food and fluids within the colony. The slow-acting toxin allows the termites to continue to interact with other colony members and spread the bait, increasing the effectiveness of the treatment. Over time, the colony is gradually eliminated as more and more termites consume the bait.
Trelona ATSB is designed to be a low-toxicity and environmentally friendly option for termite control, and is often used as part of an integrated pest management program. It is important to note that Trelona ATSB should only be applied by a licensed pest control professional who has been trained in its proper use and application.

Termite Habitats
Subterranean termites, like most other termite species, are social insects that live in large colonies with distinct castes such as workers, soldiers, and reproductives. They are called subterranean termites because they build their colonies in the soil, where they create elaborate tunnels and galleries that allow them to forage for food and move between different parts of their colony.

In Ames, Iowa, subterranean termites are most commonly found in the eastern half of the state, where the soil is rich in clay and provides ideal conditions for their underground tunnels. They prefer warm and moist environments and are often found in areas where wood comes into contact with the soil, such as around building foundations or in woodpiles.

​Subterranean termites feed on cellulose, which is found in wood and other plant materials. They are particularly attracted to moist wood and can cause significant damage to structures if left unchecked. They are also known to feed on other cellulose-containing materials such as cardboard and paper.

Subterranean termites reproduce through swarming, where winged reproductive termites leave the colony in large numbers to mate and start new colonies. Swarming typically occurs in the spring or early summer, when environmental conditions are favorable.

To control subterranean termites, it's important to take steps to reduce moisture around the home, such as fixing leaks and ensuring proper drainage. Regular inspections by a licensed pest control professional can also help to identify and address termite infestations before they cause significant damage. 

Why termite bait stations are a great solution


Bait treatments for termites can be a preferred option for several reasons:

1. Reduced environmental impact: Bait treatments can be less toxic to the environment than liquid treatments. With liquid treatments, a large amount of termiticide must be applied to the soil around the home, which can potentially harm non-target organisms and disrupt the natural ecosystem. Bait treatments, on the other hand, use a smaller amount of toxin, and it is applied only where termites are active.
2. Targeted approach: Bait treatments can be more targeted than liquid treatments, as they are placed directly in areas where termite activity has been identified. This can help to reduce the risk of exposure to humans and pets and minimize the potential for damage to non-target organisms.
3. Colony elimination: Bait treatments are designed to eliminate entire termite colonies, rather than just repelling or killing individual termites. This can lead to more long-term termite control and reduced chances of reinfestation.
4. Non-invasive: Bait treatments do not require drilling or trenching around the foundation of the home, which can be disruptive and expensive. Instead, bait stations are placed around the perimeter of the home, making them a less invasive option for homeowners.

The most common pests found in Ames, Iowa can vary depending on the season and other environmental factors. However, some of the most common pests that residents may encounter in Ames include:

1. Ants: Several species of ants can be found in Ames, including pavement ants, carpenter ants, and odorous house ants.
   
2. Spiders: Common spiders found in Ames include wolf spiders, house spiders, and brown recluse spiders.
   
3. Bed bugs: Bed bugs can be found in homes, hotels, and other dwellings in Ames.
   
4. Mice and rats: Both mice and rats are common pests in Ames, especially during the fall and winter months.
   
5. Stink bugs: Stink bugs are a common outdoor pest in Ames, and can become a nuisance when they enter homes in search of warmth during the cooler months.
   
6. Cockroaches: German cockroaches and American cockroaches are two of the most common species of cockroaches found in Ames.
   
7. Wasps and bees: Several species of wasps and bees can be found in Ames, including paper wasps, yellow jackets, and honeybees.
   

It's important to take steps to prevent pest infestations, such as sealing cracks and crevices, keeping food stored in airtight containers, and keeping a clean home. If you do encounter a pest infestation, it's best to contact a professional pest control company to identify and eliminate the problem.

If you're like many people, spiders are one of the last things you want to come across in your home. Not only do they look creepy and have a way of scaring us, sometimes even menacingly watching from afar; but their webs can be inconvenient (not to mention unsightly) to keep up with. If you live in or around Boone Iowa, however, there's an easy solution - Creed Pest Control! With years of experience in providing superior spider control services for residential homes and businesses alike; we'll help walk you through why this is an important investment for your family's comfort & peace-of-mind. Let's explore some benefits that will make it clear hiring Creed Pest Control is the best decision for effective spider control.
Exploring the Benefits of Creed Pest Control and the EcoSmart Pest Program for Spider Control.Creed Pest Control and its EcoSmart Pest Program are great options for anyone looking to get rid of spiders quickly and effectively. The EcoSmart Pest Program focuses on using non-toxic, eco-friendly methods to control pests in the home or garden. This means that your family and pets don’t have to be exposed to traditional insecticides, making it a healthier option.


The program first begins with an inspection by one of their trained professionals so that they can identify the type of spider you’re dealing with, as well as any other pests present in your home. Once the inspection is complete, they will create a customized plan tailored specifically to your situation. This may include things such as installing screens or caulking cracks and crevices where spiders might be entering from. They will also use materials such as webster and vacuums to remove existing webs and egg sacs, while traditional products may be needed in some cases, Creed Pest Control will employ these only as a last resort.


Overall, Creed Pest Control's EcoSmart Pest Program is a great way to eliminate spiders without having to resort to synthetic insecticide treatments. They offer fast results without compromising the safety of your family or pets, making it an ideal solution for anyone wanting a healthy and effective pest control solution.
Investing in Spider Control as a Necessary Action for Home & Business Comfort & Peace-of-MindInvesting in spider control is a necessary action for any home or business owner looking to maintain comfort and peace of mind. Spiders may be small, but they can be quite intimidating and unwelcome guests in our homes. Unfortunately, spiders are quite common and can make their way into our homes in a variety of ways. Something as simple as an open door or window can provide an easy entry for these eight-legged critters. They might also find their way indoors via cracks in the walls or gaps beneath windows and doors.


The good news is that with proper spider control measures, you can keep your living spaces free of spiders and minimize the chances of them coming back again. Investing in regular pest control services is one effective way to deal with spiders as well as other unwanted pests such as cockroaches, ants, bedbugs, and more. These professionals are experienced in identifying the type of spider infestation you’re dealing with so that they can apply the appropriate treatment methods to get rid of them efficiently.


Not only will this help keep your home spider-free but it will also provide a sense of peace of mind knowing that you’re taking proactive steps to protect yourself from unwanted critters. In addition to regular pest control treatments, there are also other ways to prevent spiders from entering your home such as sealing cracks and crevices around windows and doors, removing clutter where spiders might hide, keeping your yard tidy by trimming bushes around the house regularly and cleaning up debris such as leaves and grass clippings on pathways or porches where spiders might find refuge. With these preventive measures taken care of, you’ll be able to enjoy greater peace of mind knowing that your home is protected from all sorts of creepy crawlies!
Natural Product Application to Eliminate & Repel Spiders such as Essentra IC3 and Silicon DustSpiders can be unwelcome visitors in many homes, but thankfully there are natural products available to help eliminate and repel them. Essentra IC3 is a natural product that can be used to effectively combat spiders. It is a patented blend of essential oils, including rosemary oil, clove oil, peppermint oil, and thyme oil. These essential oils work together to create an environment that spiders find unsuitable for living, so they choose to stay away from the treated area. The product also has a pleasant aroma, so it will not have any adverse effects on your home’s air quality.


Silicon dust is another natural product that can be used to eliminate spiders in the home. Silicon dust is a dry powder made up of finely ground silica particles which create an abrasive film when activated with moisture or heat. Spiders do not like this abrasive film and will avoid the area where it has been applied. Silicon dust does not have an odor, does not stain surfaces, and will not harm humans or pets when used as directed.


Both of these natural products are effective solutions for eliminating and repelling spiders from your home without having to use harsh chemical pesticides or insecticides that could have unwanted side effects on humans and pets. So if you’re looking for a more eco-friendly solution to control spider populations in your home, consider giving either Essentra IC3 or silicon dust a try!
Creed Pest, Experienced Professionals with Years of Experience in Providing Superior Spider Control ServicesSpider control is a necessity for many businesses and homes, especially in the warmer months of the year. Creed Pest offers superior spider control services that have been developed over years of experience in the industry. The team at Creed Pest has decades of expertise in providing effective pest management solutions. Their technicians are trained to identify and eliminate any spider infestation quickly and efficiently, ensuring that your home or business remains safe and secure. The company takes great pride in utilizing the most advanced technology and techniques available when treating spider infestations.


No matter what type of spider problem you have, Creed Pest will be able to help. They have a wide range of tools and products that can be used to address any number of pests. From sprays to traps, they have it all! As part of their service package, Creed Pest also provides preventative maintenance plans that can help ensure your property stays pest-free for longer periods. This comprehensive approach to pest control allows them to identify potential issues before they become an issue and take appropriate measures to prevent future infestations from occurring.


When you work with Creed Pest, you can rest assured knowing that your property is protected by experienced professionals who care about getting the job done right. Their team will take action quickly if any spiders are found on your property and create a plan for eliminating them safely without causing further damage or harm. With their years of experience in spider control services, you can trust that the team at Creed Pest will get rid of your unwanted guests as soon as possible so you can enjoy peace of mind!

"Take Back Control of Your Home: Effective Strategies to Combat Odorous House Ants in Ames, Iowa"Are you having trouble with odorous house ants in your home? Do you wish there were an effective solution to combat them so that you can take back control? Don't despair— we have the answers and help of Creed Pest Control in Ames Iowa. With their extensive experience and expertise, they are well-equipped to provide strategic solutions tailored just to your needs. We will discuss some of these strategies today, so read on to get informed about how to tackle odorous house ants and reclaim ownership of your home!
What are odorous house ants? How and why do odorous house ants bud their colonyOdorous house ants are a species of ant commonly found in homes throughout America. They are black or brown colored, about 1/8 inch long, and usually have an unpleasant smell when disturbed. The odorous house ants get their name from the unpleasant smell they emit when crushed. These ants typically nest in wood and other materials around the structure of the home and can be very difficult to eradicate once they become established. Not only are odorous house ants a nuisance, but they can also contaminate food sources and spread disease.
When it comes to eliminating odorous house ants, early detection is key. These pests reproduce quickly, so if you notice them in your home, you must act immediately to ensure that the infestation doesn’t get out of control. Odorous house ants will form new colonies by a process known as “budding” where some of the worker ants will move away from the original colony to establish a new one. This can be caused by overcrowding or if there is not enough food available for the worker ants at the original colony site. Once these new colonies are established, they pose an even greater threat since each one is capable of producing more worker ants than before.
To help prevent odorous house ant infestations, it’s important to keep food sources stored properly and eliminate any moisture issues in your home as this can lead to higher humidity levels which may attract them. Additionally, sealing up any cracks or crevices where these pests could gain entry into your home is also recommended as this will make it much harder for them to establish themselves inside your walls once inside. Finally, performing regular inspections around your property twice per year should help identify any potential issues before they become too big of a problem.
What is the primary food source and harborage for odorous house ants?The primary food source and harborage for odorous house ants are sugars and proteins. These small, light to dark brown ants can be found in kitchens, bathrooms, and other areas of the home where food is present. They feed on sugar-rich foods such as syrup, honey, jams, jellies, and sugary drinks. They also feed on greasy foods like butter and oils. In addition to these sources of food, odorous house ants will scavenge for dead insects or other small animals that may have died in or near the home.
As far as harborage is concerned, odorous house ants will often nest in wall voids or behind baseboards in the home. This makes controlling them difficult since it can be hard to find their nests. Additionally, they may nest outdoors if conditions are right such as between stones or under logs or rocks in the yard. Inside homes, they can also build large colonies with multiple queens inside single walls or floors which can lead to infestations throughout a structure if left unchecked.
It's important to note that odorous house ants are not known to cause any structural damage to a home but they will contaminate food with their excrement and trail pheromones that attract more of them into the structure so it is important to keep an eye out for signs of an ant infestation and act quickly if you notice them around your home.
What are the best prevention tips for odorous house antsOdorous house ants, scientifically known as Tapinoma sessile, are a common pest in many parts of the world. While they are not generally dangerous to humans, these insects can become a nuisance and cause damage to certain materials. Fortunately, several measures can be taken to prevent odorous house ant infestations before they become a problem.
The most important step for prevention is to maintain a clean home environment. Odorous house ants feed on a variety of food sources including sweets and proteins, so it is important to always keep dishes clean and sealed items stored in airtight containers. Crumbs and any exposed food should be immediately cleaned up and trash cans should be emptied often. To further discourage odorous house ants from entering the home, windows should be closed during humid or wet weather since these insects prefer moist environments.
In addition to keeping the interior of the home clean, careful attention should also be paid to the exterior areas around the house such as gardens and decks. Any wood or plant debris should be removed regularly since this type of material will attract odorous house ants. Keeping mulch away from foundations can also help reduce ant populations outdoors as mulch acts as a natural shelter for them. Furthermore, checking gutters for any blockages or backups which could lead to pooling water may also prove beneficial.
finally, if an infestation does occur then contact with a professional pest control service is recommended as they will have access to more effective methods such as insecticides that are not available to consumers on their own. In general though, following these preventive measures will help reduce the likelihood of an odorous house ant problem in your home or garden!
What is a professional pest control ant treatment from Creed Pest Control? The first step of Creed Pest Control’s ant treatment process is an inspection. This thorough inspection helps us identify where the ants may be entering your home and locate any existing nests or trails of ants. It also helps to understand the type of ant infestation, so that the proper products can be selected. After inspection, we move on to identification. During this step, we help you determine what type of ant species has infiltrated your home in order to select the best product for treating them. We provide a detailed report of our findings so that you know exactly what kind of ant you are dealing with and how best to treat it.
Once the type of ant infestation is identified, the most effective product selection can begin. We offer a wide range of products including baits, gels, sprays, dusts, and more that target specific types of ants and their nests. We always make sure to select the most appropriate products for your situation to achieve quick results.
Finally, we move on to treatment. Depending on the extent of the infestation, this could involve spot treatments, perimeter treatments or a combination of both. For instance, if you are dealing with odorous house ants, we usually recommend laying a targeted bait along with an effective perimeter treatment around windows and door frames as well as other points where ants may enter your home. This ensures that no matter where they come from or how fast they spread within your property, our treatments will keep them under control and eliminate them quickly and efficiently.
Hardware store sprays can make ant infestations worse.When it comes to ant infestations, it can be extremely difficult to get rid of them without the right techniques and products. Unfortunately, many people are unaware that using certain hardware store sprays can make their ant problem worse instead of better. This is because these sprays cause the ants to scatter and spread out to new areas, making them harder to target. In addition, they drive the ants deeper into hiding spots where they are harder to find and eliminate. Not only does this make it more difficult and time-consuming for homeowners or pest control professionals to locate and eradicate the problem, but it also increases the cost of getting rid of them as well.
Overall, when it comes to dealing with an ant infestation, it's important not to resort immediately to spraying chemicals from a hardware store. While these may seem like a quick and easy solution, they can actually end up exacerbating the problem due to their tendency to cause the ants to scatter and hide in deeper locations. To ensure that your ant problem is taken care of quickly and efficiently with minimal cost, you should always consult with a professional pest control company that has experience dealing with these types of issues.
Conclusion: How can you best deal with an odorous house ant problem in your home?When it comes to dealing with an odorous house ant problem in your home, the best approach is to follow a few key steps. First, it is important to identify the source of the ants and take measures to eliminate them. This may involve locating and sealing any entry points, such as cracks around windows or doors. Additionally, removing sources of food and water can help reduce the attraction for ants. It is also essential to keep all surfaces clean, including countertops and floors, as ants are drawn to messes.
In addition to taking preventative steps, homeowners should use an effective insecticide or bait that targets odorous house ants specifically. Baits work by luring these ants in with a sweet substance that they are drawn to before eventually eradicating them. However, if baiting is not an option then insecticides should be used carefully according to the manufacturer’s instructions. For example, some insecticides must not be applied directly on carpets due to possible staining or discoloration.
Lastly, homeowners need to remain vigilant when dealing with odorous house ant problems in their homes. Regular cleaning and monitoring of areas prone to ant infestations will help keep them under control over time. Additionally, always read product labels thoroughly before using any products designed for pest control to ensure proper usage and safety precautions are taken accordingly.