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The odorous house ant (Tapinoma sessile, known as OHA) is a small black or brown species that smells like rotten coconut when crushed. Outside, OHA live in colonies in soil, mulch, turfgrass or in logs or flower beds but will move into homes in large numbers.
For long-term OHA control, eliminate visible colonies and their food source. Also, create a protective barrier around the house. Treat colonies with a broad-spectrum liquid insecticide labeled for indoor and outdoor use. Pay attention to where ants are trailing, including tree trunks, branches, trash cans or plants touching the structure.
Next, prevent new OHA infestations by creating a protective barrier. Try a granular insecticide with a long residual around the perimeter of the structure, and in areas with dense foliage, ground cover, mulch, leaf litter or rock. You might also need to use baits to locate and destroy any brood or satellite ant colonies.
Brian Mount is Technical Service Manager for FMC Professional Solutions.
Brian
Following ant trails can be an incredibly effective way to smartly eliminate them before they get out of hand. Great advice.