Is your home being plagued by ants? Don't worry, you are certainly not alone! Ants are one of the most prolific pests, with over 812 species in the United States and over 15,700 species worldwide. If you're wondering why they're invading your home and how pest control companies in Knoxville, TN, can help you get rid of them, keep reading!
Why Are There Ants In My Home?
If you are wondering why your home is suddenly playing host to scores of marching ants, there is a simple answer: our homes provide them with luxurious accommodation, offering shelter and an endless supply of food. Ants are incredibly intelligent and will use scent trails to communicate with their colony mates. Once one of them discovers a great source of food, water, and shelter, they can alert the rest of the colony and leave a scent trail for them to follow. Aside from arranging pest control treatments from one of the pest control companies in Knoxville, TN, you can also deter ants by doing everything you can to cut off their readily accessible food and water supplies. That means taking care of any leaks or condensation around your home and making sure that you clean up food spills and crumbs immediately.
Which Type Of Ants Are Found in Knoxville, TN?
There are quite a few different species of ants that are commonly found in Knoxville and the surrounding area. One of the many pest control companies in Knoxville, TN, can conduct an inspection and identify the type of pest you are dealing with, allowing them to suggest the most effective treatment plan to meet your needs.
- Odorous house ants (Tapinoma sessile) A common nuisance in Knoxville homes, often showing up in kitchens and bathrooms in search of food and moisture. These tiny invaders get their name from the distinct, foul smell—similar to rotting coconut—that they emit when squashed.
- Argentine ants (Linepithema humile) Small, light‑brown ants known for forming massive supercolonies that forage extensively indoors and outdoors
- Pharaoh ants (Monomorium pharaonis) Tiny (≈approximately 2 mm), yellow-brown ants are notorious in buildings, including hospitals. They're difficult to eradicate once they've gotten inside.
- Little black ants (Monomorium minimum) Dark, shiny ants about 1–2mm long. They infiltrate homes seeking sweets or grease and often nest indoors.
- Fire ants (Solenopsis spp.) Includes red‑imported, black‑imported, and hybrid varieties. They build outdoor mounds and deliver painful stings.
- Carpenter ants (Camponotus spp., e.g., Camponotus pennsylvanicus) Larger (up to 12mm), black or dark brown. Nesting in moist wood, carpenter ants can cause extensive structural damage to your property.
- Crazy ants (likely Nylanderia spp.) This species takes its name from its signature erratic, fast style of movement. Similar in size to odorous ants and often spotted in Knoxville yards
- Acrobat ants (Crematogaster spp.) Small (1⁄16–1⁄8″) ants, typically yellow‑brown to black. They arch their abdomen over their body when disturbed.
You may also find some less common species like the Asian Needle Ant, Pavement Ants, and Acorn Ants, but these are much rarer to find in residential homes.
How Do Pest Control Companies in Knoxville, TN, Eliminate Ants?
Pest control companies in Knoxville, TN, employ a combination of targeted treatments, long-term prevention strategies, and localized expertise to eliminate ant infestations effectively. The process begins with identifying the precise ant species taking over your home, as each type behaves differently and responds best to a specialized treatment approach. Your technician will also follow any ant trails to locate the nest, as they need to treat the source of the problem, not just the visible ants. Once they have all the necessary information, they can devise an appropriate treatment plan. Following treatment and nest removal, pest control companies in Knoxville, TN, will recommend sealing up any gaps and entry points to help deter infestations. This may include gaps around windows and doors as well as cracks in the foundation. They will also discuss ongoing maintenance plans to help protect your home from future problems, not just ants, but also other pests.
Why Choose Otis Pest Control?
When it comes to choosing pest control companies in Knoxville, TN, Otis Pest Control stands out for its local expertise, reliable service, and proven results. With over 50 years of experience, Otis understands the unique pest challenges faced by homeowners in East Tennessee. Their expert team designs customized treatment plans that zero in on your exact pest issue—be it stubborn ants, destructive termites, or unwelcome rodents—ensuring precise and effective results. Otis Pest Control is committed to customer satisfaction, offering prompt response times and thorough follow-ups. If you're looking for trustworthy pest control companies in Knoxville, TN, choose Otis for professional, effective solutions that protect your home and family year-round. Experience the Otis difference today!
Dealing with ants in your home can be frustrating, but with the help of experienced pest control companies in Knoxville, TN, it doesn't have to be a long-term problem. Whether you're seeing a steady trail of odorous house ants in your kitchen or suspect a carpenter ant nest damaging your property, the key to successful elimination lies in accurate identification, targeted treatment, and proactive prevention. Don't let these tiny invaders take over your home — reach out to a local pest control expert today and take the first step toward an ant-free home!
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Otis Termite & Pest Control is a full-service pest control company with a focus on outstanding service. We have been serving the East Tennessee area for over 56 years and our reputation is built on prompt and effective service. We’re good at what we do and we’re fast. We do the job right the first time – and that’s an actual guarantee!
Call 865.690.1662 or visit www.otispestcontrol.net.
112 Hayfield Road 
