Dubliners are most at risk of ant infestation this summer.
Callouts for ants have increased by 80 percent nationwide, with Dublin accounting for the most in May at 25 per cent.
The remaining top four counties for ant callouts include Galway (16 per cent), Tipperary (13 per cent), Cork (11 per cent), and Waterford (5 per cent).
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Rentokil, Ireland’s leading pest control provider, is warning the public to be on the lookout for ants when the weather is good.
Richard Faulkner, Advanced Technical Field Consultant said: “Ants are usually at their most active during the summer months, and these insects can become an issue for home and business owners in the form of infestations.
“A small ant problem can quickly become a much larger one.
“There are a number of steps which property owners can take to curb the presence of ants, but if in doubt, we would encourage anyone to seek the services of a professional pest control provider.”
Ants are more likely to enter homes and businesses in search of food during the summer.
The insects are a common summertime pest and they can become a nuisance if an infestation goes untreated.
If ants find a food source in an area, they can lay down pheromones to attract other ants - which can rapidly turn a small infestation into a much larger one.
Ways to prevent ants include:
Clear up food and liquid spillages immediately
Sweep up any food crumbs from under your kitchen appliances
Store your food in airtight containers
If you have a pet, clear away any food that isn’t eaten straight away
Block off entry points for ants by sealing all cracks and crevices around your doors and window frames
Keep your compost enclosed in the garden and make sure all rubbish bins have tightly sealed lids
People can find out more about ant infestations by visiting the Rentokil website.
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