Carlow accounts for the fourth-highest number of ant call-outs from Rentokil in Ireland.
The pest control provider has recorded a 74% increase in callouts for ants between January and February this year when compared with the same period last year, which notably, recorded a 35% increase in ant callouts when compared to the same period in 2018.
The company is attributing the year-on-year increase in callouts to climate change, with the resulting milder conditions allowing the insects to thrive and multiply.
Dublin had the highest number of callouts for ants between January and February, accounting for 43% of all callouts. Kildare (19%), Kerry (10%), and Carlow (5%) were the next counties most affected.
Richard Faulkner, Advanced Technical Field Consultant for Rentokil said: “Rentokil typically receives the majority of its callouts for ants during summertime. However, progressively milder winters are resulting in increased callout levels earlier in the year. A small ant problem can quickly become a much larger one. If they find a food source, the insects lay down a pheromone trail which attracts other ants to the area.
Some tips to prevent the presence of ants in your home or business include:
- Clear up food and liquid spillages immediately.
- Sweep up any food crumbs from under your kitchen appliances and units.
- Store your food in airtight containers wherever possible.
- 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.
- In the garden, keep your compost enclosed and make sure all rubbish bins have tightly sealed lids.”
