Ant control uses targeted baits and strategies matched to how ants forage — so colonies collapse instead of scattering. Ants enter through tiny cracks, trail to food, and can nest in walls, under slabs, or in yard mounds. Carpenter ants add moisture and nesting-site concerns.
Appearance and identification
The ants South Jersey homeowners usually call about are odorous house ants, pavement ants, and carpenter ants. Odorous house ants are small and dark and smell when crushed. Pavement ants nest in cracks in walks and slabs and trail inside along edges. Carpenter ants are larger, often black or black and red. Winged ants in spring are sometimes mistaken for termites: ants have elbowed antennae and a pinched waist. See termite control if the wings are equal in length.
Behavior and habits
Odorous house ants and pavement ants trail to sweets and grease in kitchens, especially in spring and summer and after rain. Carpenter ants nest in damp or hollow wood. A trail indoors in winter usually means a nest is already in the heated part of the house. Fire ants are not a typical South Jersey problem.
Life cycle
Egg, larva, pupa, adult. Development can take weeks to months depending on species and conditions. Killing only the foragers you see rarely ends the nest.
Signs of infestation
Trails in kitchens and pantries, ants streaming from walls or windows, and outdoor mounds all signal a nest that needs species-matched control — not just wiping the trail.
When to call
Call when a trail comes back after you wipe it, when winged ants show up indoors, or when you find sawdust-like debris under a window, door, or sill. Spring and summer are the busy months.
How to get rid of ants
DIY sprays often scatter colonies. We inspect, identify the species, and place baits workers carry home. Carpenter ants may need a moisture and nest inspection, not only kitchen bait. Ants are included in the Pro plan, which starts at $49.95 a month. A one-time Basic visit starts at $109.95, with a 60-day pest-specific warranty. On-site factors determine the final cost. Call (609) 654-1808.
Towns we serve
If the ants keep returning, tell us where their trail starts and where it leads. We use that information to decide where to inspect and whether baiting fits the problem. Our pest control routes include Medford, Marlton, Moorestown, Hainesport, Shamong, Vincentown, Mt. Laurel, Voorhees, Lumberton. Request a free estimate or call (609) 654-1808.
Frequently asked questions
Why does wiping trails not stop ants?
Trail wiping removes scent temporarily but does not eliminate the colony. Baits carried back to the nest are usually more effective.
Do you treat carpenter ants differently?
Yes. Carpenter ants often need inspection for moisture and nesting sites, not just kitchen baiting.
Which ants are common in Medford homes?
Odorous house ants, pavement ants, and carpenter ants. Fire ants are not a typical South Jersey house problem.
What does ant control cost?
Ants are included in the Pro plan, which starts at $49.95 a month. A one-time Basic visit starts at $109.95 and includes a 60-day pest-specific warranty. On-site factors determine the final cost.