For years, we’ve guffawed at the antics of the unhinged <keyword id="19929575" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Florida" source="keywords">Florida</keyword> man. Fed up with the ridicule, the region’s <keyword id="21281299" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="ants" source="keywords">ants</keyword> have taken it upon themselves to improve the reputation of the coastal state by simply doing what they do best: becoming life-saving surgeons!<br /><br />In a fascinating turn of events, scientists have documented that Florida carpenter ants (<em>Camponotus floridanus</em>) engage in selective medical treatments, including wound cleaning and even <keyword id="21021746" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="amputation" source="keywords">amputation</keyword>, to care for their injured nestmates.<br /><h2>Blending personal and the professional</h2>However, the process of treatment might be a little more gross than we’re used to. As per the research, the ants prescribe two primary types of treatments: wound cleaning with mouthparts or a combination of cleaning followed by full amputation of the leg. The decision on which treatment to use depended on the injury's location.<br /><br />While the treatment might be more personal than you would expect, you certainly cannot argue with the results.<br /><br />"Femur <keyword id="20037259" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="injuries" source="keywords">injuries</keyword>, where they always amputated the leg, had a success rate around 90% or 95%. And for the tibia, where they did not amputate, it still achieved about the survival rate of 75%," explains study author Erik Frank. In contrast, untreated infected wounds had much lower survival rates.<br /><h2>Why such selective <keyword id="19935980" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="surgery" source="keywords">surgery</keyword>?</h2>But why do ants choose to amputate the femur but not the tibia? The researchers hypothesised it might relate to the risk of infection. Micro-CT scans revealed that the femur, rich in muscle tissue, is crucial for circulating blood, or hemolymph, suggesting that femur injuries could lead to dangerous infections if not amputated.<br /><br />However, tibia injuries, with less muscle tissue involved, required more time for careful cleaning to prevent rapid infection spread. Amputating the tibia was too slow to be effective, hence the preference for thorough cleaning. <br /><h2>Humans, and now ants!</h2>"The fact that the ants are able to diagnose a wound, see if it's infected or sterile, and treat it accordingly over long periods of time by other individuals — the only medical system that can rival that would be the human one," Frank remarks.<br /><br />The researchers are now exploring if other <em>Camponotus </em>species exhibit similar behaviours and how these ants manage such precise <keyword id="20534371" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="medical-care" source="keywords">medical care</keyword>. Understanding the innate cooperation and potential for pain perception in ants could offer deeper insights into the complexity of insect societies.<br /><br />However, this is not to say that this discovery is entirely out of the blue either. In 2023, it was found that <em>Megaponera analis</em>, another ant species, uses antimicrobial compounds from a special gland to treat injuries. However, Florida carpenter ants lack this gland, relying solely on mechanical means for their medical care.<br /><br />The findings of this research have been published in <em>Current Biology </em>and can be accessed <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.cub.2024.06.021">here</a>.<br />

After humans, ants are now the only species found performing life-saving surgery on others of their species!

<ul class="summary-list"><li>I struggled to meet people, so I signed up for Match.com and went on a date at a restaurant. </li><li>My date was attractive, but our conversation quickly took an unexpected turn.</li></ul><p>I was 21 years old and too busy with my marketing internship <a href="https://www.insider.com/hinge-boyfriend-why-dating-is-better-offline-2023-6">to meet people the old-fashioned way</a>. Out of curiosity (and slight desperation), I turned to Match.com for some help. After a few days of mindless scrolling, I matched with Brad, a 24-year-old software engineer who lived a few miles from my office. </p><p>He was seemingly normal and conventionally good-looking, with brown hair and green eyes. On his profile, he had expressed interest in movies and "science." OK. There were only two pictures featured on his profile — one of him hiking somewhere and the other of him posing next to a great-aunt named Shirley. Not much information to go off, but then again, sometimes less is more.</p><h2>The conversation at dinner was subpar</h2><p>There wasn't much chitchat in our messages. I don't mind that — I'd rather get to know someone in person, so we quickly exchanged numbers and planned to meet at a local Thai restaurant for a first date. I was early, as usual, and I used this time to order a huge glass of pinot grigio with two ice cubes. Brad walked in about 15 minutes late carrying an oddly bulky backpack. This should have been my first clue that something was strange.</p><p>"What do you do for fun?" he asked over spring-roll appetizers. I answered with details about my jogging routine, my favorite Chicago bar, <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/freelance-writer-failed-went-back-full-time-job-2023-5">and my fledgling writing career</a>. In total, my share of the conversation took about two minutes. </p><p>When I politely reciprocated the question, Brad cracked his knuckles and flashed me an unsettling grin, revealing a distracting hunk of cilantro between his two front teeth. I would not speak again for the next hour.</p><h2>Soon, he revealed his 'unique' hobby</h2><p>Ants. Brad liked ants. Carpenter ants, to be specific, and he had an entire farm of them. <a href="https://www.insider.com/orange-county-california-doctor-accused-poisoning-husband-drano-kill-ants-2023-4">Carpenter ants chew wood</a>, but they don't<em> eat</em> it. Did you know that? Neither did I, until Brad graciously informed me. They also bite, but only when threatened. Only when threatened<em>. </em></p><p>He emphasized this point more than once. Carpenter ants are gentle creatures unless you mess with them, I was told. "They just don't like to be bugged!" he said, howling at his own joke. By this point, the Earth had stopped revolving on its axis, and time as we know it had come to a grinding halt. But Brad kept right on talking about ants.</p><p>Our waitress appeared several times throughout Brad's ant-ics, but he brushed her off on every occasion. No matter, I'd lost my appetite somewhere between sand-supply-store locations and questions about optimal colony size. While he rambled on, I dug my fork into the table and started carving tiny skulls and crossbones into the sticky wood. Finally, Brad started to get the hint. In silent defeat, he rested both button-sleeved arms on the table and sighed.</p><h2>I didn't think the date could get any worse — until a surprise guest appearance</h2><p>That's when I saw it. </p><p>A teeny tiny something wriggling out from beneath Brad's cuff. A piece of dust? Some lint? A personality? Of course not. It could only be a living breathing carpenter ant.</p><p>"This has never happened before!" Brad said, cupping the little guy in his palm. The waitress and I locked eyes over his shoulder. With a solemn nod and a steely gaze, she saluted me in a way that only a fellow blind-date victim could.</p><p>Brad started shuffling around in his backpack. Eventually, he emerged with a medium-size Tupperware container (that he conveniently happened to have!) and ushered the ant inside of it. Grabbing leftover bits of spring roll from his appetizer plate, he shoved a few carrots in there, too, for good measure. </p><p>And then, the coup de grâce. Tenderly leaning into the carrot-filled plastic container, he whispered to his ant: "Don't worry, buddy. We'll be home soon."</p><p>Like magic, the waitress appeared at my side.</p><p>"Your appetizers have been comped," she said with a wink. And I didn't need to be told twice. I shot out the front door of that restaurant like an insect from a buttonhole.</p><p>I guess you could say <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/first-date-red-flags-2018-5">I was antsy to get home</a>.</p>

When I tried online dating, the guy wouldn't stop talking about his ant farm on our first date. Then, an ant crawled out of his shirtsleeve.

<p>Prices are accurate at the time of publication.</p><ul class="summary-list"><li>Two of the best ways to eliminate ants are Borax and diatomaceous earth.</li><li>Essential oils, including peppermint and clove, are a natural way to repel and kill ants. </li></ul><p>Dealing with an ant infestation is certainly no picnic — but there are a few effective methods that will help to evict the little pests for good.</p><p>We spoke to Godfrey Nalyanya, entomologist and technical services manager of <a href="https://www.rentokil.com/us/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Rentokil North American Pest Control</a> and Noah James, owner and landscaper at <a href="https://www.libertylawngarden.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Liberty Lawn Maintenance</a>, to get their insights on why you might have ants bunking in your home, what you can do about it, and how you can take preventative measures for next summer.</p><h2><strong>How to identify types of ants</strong></h2><p><strong></strong></p><div type="image" title="Type of ants chart, including carpenter ants, crazy ants, bigheaded ants and pavement ants 4x3" height="1249" width="1665" msid="92239175" hostid="261"></div><p>There are many species of ants across the United States. And, when deciding which method to use to eliminate them, it helps to know what kind of ant you're dealing with. </p><p>According to Nalyanya, the most common ants that will enter your home include carpenter ants, odorous house ants, and pavement ants. You may also see big headed ants, and on the western side of the country, something called crazy ants.</p><ul><li><strong>Carpenter ants: </strong>A large species of ant that feeds and nests in damp wood with elbowed antennae and a pinched waist. Size ranges from 3.4 to 13 millimeters.</li><li><strong>Odorous house ants: </strong>Dark brown in color with an unevenly shaped thorax and a petiole hidden by their abdomen. Odorous house ants emit a very strong scent when crushed.</li><li><strong>Pavement ants: </strong>Worker pavement ants are small in size (about 3 millimeters) and are typically dark brown or black with a shiny shell.</li><li><strong>Big headed ants: </strong>Big headed ants are one of the easiest ants to identify — their heads are about three times the size of the rest of their body and they are much more aggressive than typical house ants.</li><li><strong>Crazy ants: </strong>The tawny crazy ant or Raspberry crazy ant moves in a quick and unpredictable manner. These ants are about 3 millimeters in size and are covered in reddish-brown hairs. They are often found in or near electronics.</li></ul><h3><strong>Termites vs. ants</strong></h3><p>Despite their appearance being quite similar to the untrained eye, there's a big difference between ants and termites — including how to treat them.</p><p>Termites have a wide body with straight antennae while most ants have curved antennae with a pinched waist. If you suspect you have termites, call a professional exterminator for assessment and treatment.</p><p>If you've noticed that ants have started moving into your kitchen or pantry, it's time to take action. Below are several methods to either exterminate the creepy crawlers or lure them away from your home.</p><h2><strong>Make a homemade ant killer with Borax</strong></h2><p>Along with <keyword id="11898443" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="cleaning" source="Orion">cleaning</keyword> laundry, <a href="https://www.insider.com/guides/home/borax-uses" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Borax</a> — also known as sodium borate — is a natural mineral that will kill any ants that ingest it. </p><p>Mix Borax with equal parts water and sugar to make a syrup, and leave it in the corners where you've noticed ants. This method will work to kill the entire colony in roughly 24 to 48 hours, as the worker ants will bring the liquid back to the nest. </p><p><strong>Important:</strong> Borax can cause irritation, so wear gloves when handling it and use it sparingly around pets and children.</p><h2><strong>Remove ants with diatomaceous earth</strong></h2><p><a href="https://www.insider.com/guides/home/diatomaceous-earth" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Diatomaceous earth</a> (DE) looks like white powder, but it's actually a naturally occurring substance made from the fossils of algae called diatoms. It offers a non-toxic and natural option for eliminating ants and any other crawling insects. </p><p>Sprinkle a layer of the powder in the areas you've noticed ants or anywhere you don't want them. The diatomaceous earth will then stick to the ants, dry out their exoskeletons, and exterminate them.</p><h2><strong>Repel ants with essential oils</strong></h2><p><strong></strong></p><div type="image" title="A bottle of lavender essential oil." height="1413" width="1885" msid="92239177" hostid="261"></div><p>If you're looking for a more natural approach, you can use natural repellents such as essential oils. Because ants are sensitive to strong smells, these scented oils can help to repel the little pests from the hot spots in your house, but they likely won't kill the colony. </p><h3><strong>Peppermint</strong></h3><p>A <a href="https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/Efficacy-of-lemon-juice-and-peppermint-oil-in-Moreno-Shah/cc37ff10f8e27e29ca4b47b9b40a7bdf138fa045" target="_blank" rel="noopener">2019 study</a> found that peppermint oil, in varying concentrations, was more effective than lemon juice at repelling fire ants. Additionally, a <a href="https://journals.tdl.org/instars/index.php/instars/article/view/269" target="_blank" rel="noopener">2018 study</a> found that peppermint oil was far more effective than vinegar at killing and repelling fire ants. In some tests, 100% peppermint oil killed all the ants that were exposed to it.</p><h3><strong>Cedarwood</strong></h3><p>According to a <a href="https://academic.oup.com/ee/article/43/3/762/404096?login=false" target="_blank" rel="noopener">2014 study</a>, cedarwood oil is very effective at repelling different types of ants and even ticks. </p><h3><strong>Cinnamon</strong></h3><p>One <a href="https://www.ijsrp.org/research-paper-0714/ijsrp-p31106.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">2014 study</a> showed that, in high concentrations, cinnamon essential oil could repel and kill ants. However, sprinkling the powdered cinnamon you have in your spice cabinet won't be as effective. Ants will just learn to avoid it and go to other parts of your home.</p><h3><strong>Clove</strong></h3><p>A <a href="https://www.cdspatriots.org/uploaded/documents/SPatelScientificPaper.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">2017 study</a> found that clove oil was 88% effective at repelling carpenter ants. This is likely due to the insecticidal properties of <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7729565/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">eugenol</a>, a compound extracted from clove.</p><p><strong>Quick tip:</strong> Other essential oils that may help repel plants include lavender and <a href="https://www.intechopen.com/chapters/75024" target="_blank" rel="noopener">citrus</a>. </p><h2><strong>Bait ants with peanut butter and honey</strong></h2><p>If you've eliminated all your food sources and potential entry points around the house, you can always coax the remaining ants to leave the home by putting a bait like peanut butter or honey outside. </p><p>"In terms of baiting the ants, although it sounds like a lot of work, you can easily make your own bait in a snap with some peanut butter mixed with honey or white bread crumbs mixed with either sugar or powdered sugar — both will yield results." says James.</p><p>If you're worried about an outdoor bait attracting more ants or want to ensure the colony near your house is killed off, consider adding Borax to the DIY mixture.</p><h2><strong>Bring out the ant traps and poison</strong></h2><p>Ant traps and poison are a tried and true method when it comes to eliminating pests, but James warns that pesticides are very bad for the environment. Additionally, ant poison can be dangerous for pets and young children, so be careful when applying these chemicals in your home. </p><p>Traps might be a good option for cottages or summer homes as they only need to be replaced or maintenanced every three months and will take effect in about 24 hours.</p><h3><strong>Best ant traps, poisons, and repellents</strong></h3><p><strong></strong></p><div type="image" title="A swarm of ants underneath a door." height="916" width="1221" msid="92239179" hostid="261"></div><p>Not sure where to start with traps and poison? We tested some of the most common products on the market to find the <a href="https://www.insider.com/guides/home/best-ant-killer" target="_blank" rel="noopener">best ant traps and repellents</a> out there. <br /><br /></p><ul><li><strong>Best ant killer overall: </strong><a href="https://www.terro.com/terro-ant-dust" target="_blank" rel="nofollow nofollow noopener sponsored sponsored nofollow sponsored">T600 Ant Dust, $8.99 at Terro</a></li><li><strong>Best ant killer spray: </strong><a href="https://affiliate.insider.com?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2FRaid-Ant-Roach-Killer-26-Fragrance-Free-17-5-oz%2F14862628" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored">Raid Ant &amp; Roach Killer, $4.43 at Walmart</a></li><li><strong>Best kid- and pet-safe ant killer: </strong><a href="https://affiliate.insider.com?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB07B8X9N8P" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored">Aunt Fannie's Ant Remedy, $9.99 at Amazon</a></li><li><strong>Best ant nest killer: </strong><a href="https://affiliate.insider.com?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2FSpectracide-Fire-Ant-Shield-Mound-Destroyer-Granules-3-5-lb%2F48947775" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored">Spectracide Fire Ant Shield Mound Destroyer, $7.75 at Walmart</a></li><li><strong>Best ant bait: </strong><a href="https://affiliate.insider.com?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB00E4GACB8%3Ftag%3Dbiipgf_060418_best-ant-killer-20" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Terro Liquid Ant Bait Stations, $11.92 at Amazon</a></li></ul><h2><strong>Seal up your home to keep ants out for good</strong></h2><p><strong></strong></p><div type="image" title="A swarm of ants on a tiled floor." height="2023" width="2698" msid="92239181" hostid="261"></div><p>It might seem like there's nothing you can do to keep ants out year after year — but there are certain tricks that can make all the difference.</p><ul><li><strong>Clean up food and spills: "</strong>The best piece of advice to keep ants from getting into your home is to keep it clean," says Nalyanya. If there is food or residue, thoroughly clean the area in order to ensure there's nothing for the ants to graze on. If the ants congragated near a water source, make sure to remove the water or seal up any cracks to ensure there are no sources they could be getting into.</li><li><strong>Check your piping:</strong> It is also important to make sure you don't have any leaks around your pipes that ants could be attracted to, according to Nalyanya. "Take an inventory of your home to make sure any cracks or crevices are sealed," he says.</li><li><strong>Keep food stored away and not out in the open: </strong>Properly sealing and storing the food in your kitchen is vital. According to Nalyanya, ants are attracted to moisture and food, so they will try to make their way into a home to find those items, especially in the summer when moisture outside is scarce.</li><li><strong>Check for gaps and cracks in your foundation:</strong> "Since ants are so small, they can get into a home through any cracks, crevices, or gaps throughout the entire house," says Nalyanya. Ants also get to the interior of the home around doors and thresholds, through cracks in the floor, and through any penetrations that are not sealed properly.</li></ul><h2><strong>Treat anthills to remove ants from your yard</strong></h2><p><strong></strong></p><div type="image" title="An anthill in a yard." height="1413" width="1885" msid="92239183" hostid="261"></div><p>Removing ants from the outdoors versus indoors is going to be a completely different story. You might not necessarily need to remove ants from your yard at all. But if you're finding it difficult to keep them from entering your home or you're worried about ants biting or stinging you or your kids and destroying your landscaping, it might be necessary to take the next steps.</p><ul><li><strong>Apply ant spray: </strong>If you're going to try an ant spray in your yard, start by mowing your grass. From there, spray your entire yard with an insect killer that contains bifenthrin (pyrethroid insecticide). Note that this will kill other insects as well and may harm dogs, so be sure to read the label before trying this method.</li><li><strong>Pour soap and water on the anthill:</strong> If you've located the anthill in question, consider flooding the nest with a mix of dish soap and water. This will destroy the anthill and kill the colony without the same risks that come with using chemicals or poison.</li><li><strong>Target anthills with Borax: </strong>Like the soap and water method, a mixture of Borax and sugar will quickly wipe out an entire colony. Just pour the mixture directly into the anthill or in the surrounding area.</li><li><strong>Sprinkle diatomaceous earth on the anthill: </strong> Simply spread the diatomaceous earth 6 to 12 inches away from doorways, plants, or any crevices leading into your house.</li></ul><h2><strong>When to call an exterminator</strong></h2><p>If you've tried all of these methods and still have ants in your home, or if they keep coming back, you should bring in a professional. Hiring someone who knows how to kill the colony is especially important if you're dealing with carpenter ants, which can cause damage to your home over time.</p><p>Depending on the type of infestation you have, an <a href="https://jdmpestcontrol.ca/how-pest-control-get-rid-ants/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">exterminator</a> may put out traps or treat the ant colony directly with poison. They will also ensure that your house is sealed from any future invasions.</p><h2><strong>Insider's takeaway</strong></h2><p>While wiping out a colony of ants can sometimes seem like an endless loop, taking action and following up with preventative measures is much easier than you might think. </p><p>Ants need both food and water to survive the summer, and can sneak into your home to feast on crumbs through small gaps in the foundation and even leaky plumbing. </p><p>Ensuring your home is sealed tight and free from open food and water sources, and that your backyard is free of anthills, will be your best bet in evicting the little pests.</p>

The best ways to get rid of ants in your home and how to keep them out permanently

<ul class="summary-list"><li>To eliminate ants, try <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/reviews/out?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.homedepot.com%2Fp%2F20-Mule-Team-65-oz-Borax-Laundry-Additive-Cleaner-2340000201%2F202885877" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Borax</a>, <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/reviews/out?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.homedepot.com%2Fp%2FSafer-Brand-4-lb-Diatomaceous-Earth-Bed-Bug-Flea-Ant-Crawling-Insect-Killer-51703%2F206857782" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">diatomaceous earth</a>, or <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/reviews/out?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.target.com%2Fp%2Fpeppermint-pure-essential-oil-0-5-fl-oz-everspring-8482%2F-%2FA-75663169" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">peppermint</a> and <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/reviews/out?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.target.com%2Fp%2Flavender-pure-essential-oil-0-5-floz-everspring-8482%2F-%2FA-75663152" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">lavender</a> essential oils. </li><li>Commercial baits and pesticides are often toxic to children and pets and should be used sparingly.</li><li>Ants are attracted to food and moisture, so keep your <keyword id="11898442" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="home" source="Orion">home</keyword> clean and dry to keep them from returning.</li></ul><p>Dealing with an ant infestation is certainly no picnic - but there are a series of practices and tricks that will help to evict the little pests for good if you're willing to get creative and put in a little work around the house.</p><p>We spoke to Godfrey Nalyanya, entomologist and technical services manager of <a href="https://www.rentokil.com/us/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Rentokil North American Pest Control</a> and Noah James, owner and landscaper at <a href="https://www.libertylawngarden.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Liberty Lawn Maintenance</a>, to get their insights on why you might have ants bunking in your home, what you can do about it, and how you can take preventative measures for next summer.</p><h2><strong>How to identify types of ants</strong></h2><div type="image" title="Type of ants chart, including carpenter ants, crazy ants, bigheaded ants and pavement ants 4x3" height="1249" width="1666" msid="85466344" hostid="261"></div><p>There are many species of ants across the United States. According to Nalyanya, the most common ants that will enter your home include carpenter ants, odorous house ants and pavement ants. You may also see big headed ants and on the western side of the country, something called crazy ants.</p><ul><li><strong>Carpenter ants: </strong>A large species of ant that feeds and nests in damp wood with elbowed antennae and a pinched waist. Size ranges from 3.4 to 13 millimeters.</li><li><strong>Odorous house ants: </strong>Dark brown in color with an unevenly shaped thorax and a petiole hidden by their abdomen. Odorous house ants emit a very strong scent when crushed.</li><li><strong>Pavement ants: </strong>Worker pavement ants are small in size (about 3 millimeters) and are typically dark brown or black with a shiny shell.</li><li><strong>Big headed ants: </strong>Big headed ants are one of the easiest ants to identify - their heads are about three times the size of the rest of their body and they are much more aggressive than typical house ants.</li><li><strong>Crazy ants: </strong>The ​​tawny crazy ant or Raspberry crazy ant moves in a quick and unpredictable manner. These ants are about 3 millimeters in size and are covered in reddish-brown hairs. They are often found in or near electronics.</li></ul><p>It wouldn't be summer without a couple of the little pests making their way inside your shoes or clothes - but if you've noticed that ants have started moving into your kitchen or pantry it's time to take action. Below are several methods to either exterminate the creepy crawlers or lure them away from your home.</p><p><strong>Quick tip: </strong>Despite their appearance being quite similar to the untrained eye, there's a big difference between ants and termites - including how to treat them. <br /><br />Termites have a wide body with straight antennae while most ants have curved antennae with a pinched waist. If you suspect you have termites, call a professional exterminator for assessment and treatment.</p><h2><strong>Borax</strong></h2><p>Along with <keyword id="11898443" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="cleaning" source="Orion">cleaning</keyword> laundry, <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/reviews/out?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.homedepot.com%2Fp%2F20-Mule-Team-65-oz-Borax-Laundry-Additive-Cleaner-2340000201%2F202885877" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Borax</a> - also known as sodium borate - is a natural mineral that will kill any ants that ingest it. Consider mixing Borax with equal parts water and sugar to make a syrup, and leaving it in the corners where you've noticed ants. This method will work to kill the entire colony in roughly 24 to 48 hours, as the worker ants will bring the liquid back to the nest. Note that Borax can cause irritation in pets and should be used sparingly around pets and children.</p><h2><strong>Diatomaceous earth</strong></h2><p><a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/reviews/out?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.homedepot.com%2Fp%2FSafer-Brand-4-lb-Diatomaceous-Earth-Bed-Bug-Flea-Ant-Crawling-Insect-Killer-51703%2F206857782" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Diatomaceous earth</a> (DE) looks like white powder, but it's actually a naturally occurring substance made from the fossils of algae called diatoms. It offers a non-toxic and natural option for eliminating ants and any other crawling insect. Apply the powder in the areas you've noticed ants or anywhere you don't want them. The diatomaceous earth will then stick to the ants, dry out their exoskeletons, and exterminate them.</p><h2><strong>Essential oils</strong></h2><p><strong><div type="image" title="A bottle of lavender essential oil." height="1414" width="1885" msid="85466349" hostid="261"></div></strong></p><p>If you're looking for a more natural approach, you can use natural oil repellents such as peppermint and lavender essential oils to repel the little pests from the hot spots in your house rather than kill the colony. According to James, some people find that cinnamon works as well.</p><h2><strong>Peanut butter and honey</strong></h2><p>If you've eliminated all your food sources and potential entry points around the house, you can always coax the remaining ants to leave the home by putting a bait like peanut butter or honey outside of your home. "In terms of baiting the ants, although it sounds like a lot of work, you can easily make your own bait in a snap with some peanut butter mixed with honey or white bread crumbs mixed with either sugar or powdered sugar - both will yield results!" says James.</p><p>If you're worried about an outdoor bait attracting more ants or want to ensure the colony near your house is killed off, consider adding a Borax to the DIY mixture.</p><h2><strong>Ant traps and poison</strong></h2><p>Ant traps and poison are a tried and true method when it comes to eliminating pests, but James warns that pesticides are very bad for the environment, so be careful when applying these chemicals in your home. Traps might be a good option for cottages or summer homes as they only need to be replaced or maintenanced every three months and will take effect in about 24 hours.</p><h2><strong>Best ant traps, poisons, and repellents</strong></h2><ul><li><strong>Best ant killer overall: </strong><a href="https://www.terro.com/terro-ant-dust" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow nofollow sponsored nofollow sponsored nofollow sponsored">Terro T600 Ant Dust</a></li><li><strong>Best ant killer spray: </strong><a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/reviews/out?platform=browser&amp;postSource=bi%7C5b11a3a71ae6624f008b476b&amp;sc=false&amp;type=LINK-WITH-REVIEW-SLASH-OUT&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2FRaid-Ant-Roach-Killer-26-Fragrance-Free-17-5-oz%2F14862628%3Fselected%3Dtrue&amp;sessionid=1629391888856sionid=1629391888856" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noindex noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored">Raid Ant &amp; Roach Killer</a></li><li><strong>Best kid- and pet-safe ant killer: </strong><a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/reviews/out?asin=B08V9DTBTW&amp;originalTag=biipgf_060418_best-ant-killer-20&amp;platform=browser&amp;postSource=bi%7C5b11a3a71ae6624f008b476b&amp;postTag=biipgf_060418_best-ant-killer-20&amp;sc=false&amp;type=AMAZON-AFFILIATE-LINK&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB08V9DTBTW%3Ftag%3Dbiipgf_060418_best-ant-killer-20&amp;sessionid=1629391888856&amp;tag=bisafetynet2-20629391888856&amp;tag=bisafetynet2-20" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noindex noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored">Aunt Fannie's Ant Remedy</a></li><li><strong>Best ant nest killer: </strong><a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/reviews/out?platform=browser&amp;postSource=bi%7C5b11a3a71ae6624f008b476b&amp;sc=false&amp;sessionid=1629391887629bopma2gm&amp;type=ALREADY-AFFILIATE-LINK-NOT-AMAZON&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fgo.redirectingat.com%2F%3Fid%3D35871X943606%26url%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.walmart.com%252Fip%252FSpectracide-Fire-Ant-Shield-Mound-Destroyer-Granules-3-5-lb%252F48947775&amp;xcust=1629391888968a67zakd9xt=1629391888968a67zakd9x" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow nofollow sponsored nofollow sponsored nofollow sponsored">Spectracide Fire Ant Shield Mound Destroyer</a></li><li><strong>Best ant bait: </strong><a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/reviews/out?asin=B00E4GACB8&amp;originalTag=biipgf_060418_best-ant-killer-20&amp;platform=browser&amp;postSource=bi%7C5b11a3a71ae6624f008b476b&amp;postTag=biipgf_060418_best-ant-killer-20&amp;sc=false&amp;type=AMAZON-AFFILIATE-LINK&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB00E4GACB8%3Ftag%3Dbiipgf_060418_best-ant-killer-20&amp;sessionid=1629391888856&amp;tag=bisafetynet2-20629391888856&amp;tag=bisafetynet2-20" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noindex noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored">Terro Liquid Ant Bait Stations</a></li></ul><p>For the full review, check out our guide on the <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/best-ant-killer" target="_blank" rel="noopener">best ant traps and repellents</a>.</p><h2><strong>How to keep ants out of the house</strong></h2><div type="image" title="A swarm of ants on a tiled floor." height="2024" width="2698" msid="85466352" hostid="261"></div><p>It might seem like there's nothing you can do to keep ants out year after year - but there are certain tricks that you may be missing that will make all the difference.</p><ul><li><strong>Clean up food and spills: "</strong>The best piece of advice to keep ants from getting into your home is to keep it clean," says Nalyanya. If there is food or residue, thoroughly clean the area in order to ensure there's nothing for the ants to graze on. If the ants congragated near a water source, make sure to remove the water or seal up any cracks to ensure there are no sources they could be getting into.</li><li><strong>Check your piping:</strong> It is also important to make sure you don't have any leaks around your pipes that ants could be attracted to, according to Nalyanya. "Take an inventory of your home to make sure any cracks or crevices are sealed," he says.</li><li><strong>Keep food stored away and not out in the open: </strong>Properly sealing and storing the food in your home is vital. According to Nalyanya, ants are attracted to moisture and food, so they will try to make their way into a home to find those items, especially in the summer when moisture outside is scarce.</li><li><strong>Check for gaps and cracks in your foundation:</strong> "Since ants are so small, they can get into a home through any cracks, crevices, or gaps throughout the entire house," says Nalyanya. Ants also get to the interior of the home around doors and thresholds, through cracks in the floor as well as through any penetrations that are not sealed properly.</li></ul><h2><strong>How to remove ants from your yard</strong></h2><div type="image" title="An anthill in a yard." height="1414" width="1885" msid="85466357" hostid="261"></div><p>Removing ants from the outdoors versus indoors is going to be a completely different story. You might not necessarily need to remove ants from your yard at all. But if you're finding it difficult to keep them from entering your home or you're worried about ants biting or stinging you or your kids and destroying your landscaping, it might be necessary to take the next steps.</p><ul><li><strong>Ant spray: </strong>If you're going to try an ant spray in your yard, start by mowing your grass. From there, spray your entire yard with an insect killer that contains bifenthrin (pyrethroid insecticide). Note that this will kill other insects as well and may harm dogs, so be sure to read the label before trying this method.</li><li><strong>Pour soap and water on the anthill:</strong> If you've located the anthill in question, consider flooding the nest with a mix of dish soap and water. This will destroy the anthill and kill the colony without the same risks that come with using chemicals or poison.</li><li><strong>Target anthills with Borax: </strong>Like the soap and water method, a mixture of Borax and sugar will quickly wipe out an entire colony. Just pour the mixture directly into the anthill or in the surrounding area.</li><li><strong>Diatomaceous earth: </strong> Simply spread the diatomaceous earth 6 to 12 inches away from doorways, plants, or any crevices leading into your house.</li></ul><h2><strong>Insider's takeaway</strong></h2><p>While wiping out a colony of ants can sometimes seem like an endless loop, taking action and following up with preventative measures is much easier than you might think. Ants need both food and water to survive the summer, and can sneak into your home to feast on crumbs through small gaps in the foundation and even leaky plumbing. Ensuring your home is sealed tight and free from open food and water sources, and that your backyard is free of anthills, will be your best bet in evicting the little pests.</p><a data-type="61141c4b04eb594b09253dea">What is crabgrass? 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How to get rid of ants and keep them from coming back

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Google has an Easter egg surprise for fans who search for HBO's apocalyptic show, "The Last of Us."</li><li>A mushroom button pops up at the bottom of the screen and fills the results with fungus with each click.</li></ul><p>Google has a fungal Easter egg surprise for fans of HBO's apocalyptic show, "The Last of Us" — all you need to do is Google the title of the show.</p><p>Typing "The Last of Us" into Google's search bar on desktop or mobile brings up a mushroom button at the bottom of the page.</p><p>Clicking it begins to fill the screen with fungus.</p><div type="image" title="screenshot of Google search page for The Last of Us with digital fungus at the bottom of the screen" height="1360" width="2792" msid="97259541" hostid="261"></div><p>The more you click on the mushroom, the more fungus spores pop up.</p><div type="image" title="screenshot of Google search for HBO's &quot;The Last of Us&quot; with digital fungus on the screen" height="1360" width="2792" msid="97259543" hostid="261"></div><p>HBO's hit show is set in the post-apocalyptic US after a mutant parasitic fungus takes over the world, and <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/how-last-of-us-game-compares-to-hbo-series-photos-2023-1">is based off of</a> "The Last of Us" video game. Over four million people tuned into the show's premiere on January 15, with <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/the-last-of-us-viewership-one-of-hbos-biggest-premieres-2023-1">HBO saying it is the second-largest</a> premiere of its streaming era.</p><p>At the beginning of the show, two scientists on a talk show in 1968 discuss pandemics, and one warns that fungus is a larger threat to humans than viruses and bacteria. He explains that some fungus can alter human minds the way it does to insects, like ants.</p><p>The fungus in the show is based off the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XuKjBIBBAL8">parasitic Cordyceps fungus</a>, which mainly infects insects like ants and moths. Searching for "Cordyceps" on Google also gives you a mushroom button.</p><p>The infections on the show are <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GnEIwL_SgL0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">inspired by carpenter ants</a> who turn into zombies after being infected by the Cordyceps parasite. Like carpenter ants, the characters on "The Last of Us," go through four stages of infection.</p><p>"With all of our easter eggs we strive to delight people across Search and given the dark nature of 'The Last of Us,' we didn't want this one to feel overly grim so we landed on the Cordyceps, which struck the perfect balance of creepy and cool," Emma Freeman, one of the software engineers who worked on the project, told Insider in a statement.</p><p>The Easter egg launched on Sunday at midnight.</p><p>"The Last of Us" <a href="https://www.rottentomatoes.com/tv/the_last_of_us">currently has a 97% rating</a> on Rotten Tomatoes, and the first season <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/last-of-us-wont-have-same-problem-game-of-thrones-2023-1">will cover</a> the first story in the video game. The show's creators, Neil Druckmann and Craig Mazin, have both said <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/last-of-us-wont-have-same-problem-game-of-thrones-2023-1">they don't plan to continue</a> the show past where the game ends, which means there could be a second season based on the video game's sequel.</p><p><em>This article has been updated to include a statement from a Google software engineer.</em></p>

Typing 'The Last of Us' into Google gives you an eerie Easter egg surprise &mdash; take a look

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Termites are wood-destroying insects that eat anything containing cellulose.</li><li>Look for signs like mud tubes and wood damage to see if you may have a termite infestation.</li></ul><p>You've recently spotted some insects fluttering around your <keyword id="11898442" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="home" source="Orion">home</keyword> and find yourself worrying about the potential of termites. But how can you tell they're termites? And what should you do if you identify a termite infestation? </p><p>Termites are small wood-destroying insects that live in colonies, similar to ants. According to the <a href="https://www.epa.gov/safepestcontrol/termites-how-identify-and-control-them" target="_blank" rel="noopener">US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)</a>, estimates suggest they cause billions of dollars in structural damage annually. </p><p>And they don't just eat through wood – they can damage anything containing cellulose, including wallpaper and carpeting. While they won't eat plastic or foam, they're happy to tunnel through these materials. Knowing how to spot them can help you prevent and promptly treat an infestation before you need to spend thousands on repairs. </p><p><a href="https://twinforkspestcontrol.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Twin Forks Pest Control</a> founder Brian Kelly shares five common signs of termites you should never ignore. </p><p><strong>Note:</strong> Carpenter ants are commonly mistaken for termites. They're black with a red hue, have translucent wings, narrow bodies, and are roughly 1/2 to 5/8 of an inch long. If you're unsure what kind of pest you're dealing with — whether termites or carpenter ants — contact a professional exterminator to identify them properly.</p><h2><strong>Sign 1: Swarmers (flying termites)</strong></h2><p><strong></strong></p><div type="image" title="Overhead shot of a bunch of swarmers (flying termites) on the ground." height="1414" width="2121" msid="91352373" hostid="261"></div><p>Swarmers are flying termites that don't bite, sting, or eat wood. But, they're often the first sign of a termite infestation. That's because their only purpose is to reproduce and establish new colonies during the swarming season. Kelly explains that you're most likely to find wings and spot flying termites during the spring. </p><p>One way to spot whether they've infested your home is to look for discarded wings, says Kelly. </p><p>"Termite swarmer wings are pale-colored and are usually ¼ to ½-inch long," says Kelly. Once swarmers find mates, they shed their wings, often leaving them behind on windowsills and other entry points. <strong> </strong></p><h2><strong>Sign 2: Hollow or blistering wood</strong></h2><p><strong></strong></p><div type="image" title="A close up of the corner of a door frame that has been ruined by termite damage." height="1414" width="2121" msid="91352376" hostid="261"></div><p>Damaged wood is another potential sign of termite activity. You're most likely to spot wood damage in areas where termites can get into your home through wood-to-ground contact, says Kelly, including door frames, deck posts, porch steps, and structural supports.</p><p>If you spot wood damage, Kelly recommends carefully inspecting the damaged area for signs of mold or mildew. Mildew typically has a powdery appearance while mold may look damp or fuzzy. "If you find any, then you have a wood rot problem." Wood rot isn't a sign of termite damage, but continuously damp wood can attract pests like termites. <strong> </strong></p><p>Dry wood that comes off easily in chunks is likely dry rot, says Kelly, a type of damage caused when fungal spores come into contact with damp wood. </p><p>Hollow wood, on the other hand, or wood with tunnels, is a sign of a termite infestation. You can tell wood is hollowed out because it sounds that way when tapped. <strong> </strong></p><h2><strong>Sign 3: Frass</strong></h2><p><strong></strong></p><div type="image" title="Termite wood damage with frass." height="1414" width="2121" msid="91352377" hostid="261"></div><p>Termite frass, or feces, is another sign of termite activity. Frass indicates that termites are burrowing through and eating the wood in your home. Termites create small tunnels to rid their nests of droppings, leaving it behind throughout your house. You may sometimes notice holes near areas where you've spotted frass. </p><p>Dropping appearance varies depending on the species, but they're generally very tiny and often wood-colored. They may be mistaken for sawdust or dirt. If you don't see frass, you may be able to smell it, explains Kelly, since it can give off a moldy or mildew smell.  </p><h2><strong>Sign 4: Mud tubes</strong></h2><p><strong></strong></p><div type="image" title="Mud tubes on a damaged wall from termites." height="1414" width="2121" msid="91352378" hostid="261"></div><p>According to the <a href="https://extension.missouri.edu/publications/g7420" target="_blank" rel="noopener">University of Missouri Extension Service</a>, the termite species most likely to cause damage to homes in the US is the eastern subterranean termite. </p><p>Subterranean termites are most likely to create mud tubes, which are brown-colored tunnels composed of wood and soil, measuring about 0.5 to 2.5 centimeters wide. Because these types of termites have soft bodies, mud tubes allow them to travel around your home without exposing them to external threats like dry weather and predators. </p><p>However, subterranean termites can find other ways into your home. Not seeing any mud tunnels on the outside of your home doesn't mean you don't have an infestation. Still, mud tunnels are a clear sign of termite activity. Termites often build mud tubes in visible locations such as along fences, porches, nearby tree trunks, and wall corners.</p><p><strong>Quick tip:</strong> Carpenter ants and termites can both damage wood. Kelly explains that termite tunnels and mud tubes, or galleries, have a more raggedy appearance than those of carpenter ants, which are smoother and more polished. </p><h2><strong>Sign 5: Tight-fitting doors and windows</strong></h2><p><strong></strong></p><div type="image" title="Close up of an ajar wood door." height="1306" width="1742" msid="91352379" hostid="261"></div><p>Any doors that are suddenly hard to close or open are also potential signs of termites, says Kelly.  </p><p>Because termite activity can increase humidity levels, door and window frames can expand, making these entryways harder to open or close. This sign is most likely with subterranean termites, which emit more moisture than other species. <strong> </strong></p><p>If termites are active around your doors or window, you may also notice other signs of activity like frass and wood damage.  </p><p><strong>Quick tip</strong>: In the US, dampwood, drywood, and subterranean termites are most likely to cause damage. Knowing the type of termite is essential, explains Kelly. "If you exterminate against the wrong type, chances are it won't work, and they'll continue to infest." <strong> </strong></p><h2><strong>What to do if you identify one of these signs</strong></h2><p>Because it's not possible to treat a termite infestation on your own, it's important to call a professional to inspect the damage and determine the proper course of treatment. </p><p>A professional exterminator is equipped with the knowledge to identify the type of termite and the best way to exterminate it. <strong> </strong></p><p>That said, damage doesn't happen overnight and there's no need to panic if you notice signs of termites. The <a href="https://content.ces.ncsu.edu/termites-biology-and-control" target="_blank" rel="noopener">North Carolina Extension Office</a> explains that serious damage can take between 3 to 8 years to occur, so taking your time to find a qualified professional is more critical than hiring someone on the spot. </p><h2><strong>Insider's takeaway</strong><strong> </strong></h2><p>Many things, like swarmers, discarded wings, frass, damaged wood, and mud tubes, can tip you off to a termite infestation. While termites can do serious damage, especially if left unaddressed, damage takes awhile to become serious. Finding a qualified professional who can identify the type of termite infestation is crucial for getting rid of these wood-damaging insects.</p>

You Searched For "carpenter ant" and got 6 results

After humans, ants are now the only species found performing life-saving surgery on others of their species!

Ankush Banerjee

When I tried online dating, the guy wouldn't stop talking about his ant farm on our first date. Then, an ant crawled out of his shirtsleeve.

Emily Holewczynski

The best ways to get rid of ants in your home and how to keep them out permanently

Kaitlyn McInnis

How to get rid of ants and keep them from coming back

Kaitlyn McInnis

Typing 'The Last of Us' into Google gives you an eerie Easter egg surprise take a look

Britney Nguyen

5 signs you have termites in your home, including discarded wings and tight-fitting doors

Steph Coelho