You might think that ants are the last thing you'd have to worry about in a state with alligators. However, these tiny creepy crawlies are far more likely to find their way into your home and yard. Ants can destroy lawns, infest food stores and some of them have a nasty bite. Read on to find out about 10 species of ants in California. 

The silvery field ant isn't usually spotted in people's yards, although they might be if you have a larger property. These silver-bodied critters are some of the rarer ants in California, but we'd still recommend calling in Pest Control to help you if you do spot one. 

Pharaoh ants are small and yellow. They can bite when they feel threatened, although it's not much of a sting for humans. However, although the bite may not hurt, it carries Staphylococcus, Streptococcus and salmonella. These ants in California love sweet and sticky foods, so keen bakers, beware. 

The western carpenter ant is similarly-named to the smooth carpenter ant, but they look and act quite differently. As you might have guessed, this species is most commonly found in the west, and it's one of the most abundant ants in California. Its body is usually matte dark brown. 

Smooth carpenter ants have the typical black or shiny red bodies that you see in kid's books. They have one node in the center of their body and an evenly-rounded thorax.  

Although velvety tree ants look similar to carpenter ants, there are several key differences. The shape is nearly identical, but its body is covered in lots of tiny hairs — hence the name. 

Ghost ants might not bite or sting, but they love making your home into their home. Similar to their odorous cousins, they emit a rotten coconut-like smell when they're crushed. 

Also known as a sugar ant, stink ant and coconut ant, this small brown ant is one of the most common ants in California. They like grease and sweet, sticky foods, but they're almost impossible to eliminate without the help of a pest control company. 

The pyramid ant is named because of the shape of its thorax. It's head and upper body are a brownish color, and the abdomen is black. 

This little guy got his name because he loves the heat of the midday sun. It's tiny, with a black, reddish-brown or brown body.

Argentine ants don't bite, but they can be total nuisances. They're brown with prominent antenna, and you'll see plenty of these ants in California.  

If you've got ants in your yard or home, there's no need to fear. At Joel's Pest Control, we've helped thousands of people to eliminate ants from their property. Call us today at 530-435-7897, and we'll help you restore your home to its former glory.

A Termite invasion in Yuba City is not uncommon. The year-round hot weather means that wood quickly becomes a prime target for these little critters. Although there's no magic spell to banish them entirely, you can follow our expert tips to prevent them from chowing down on your prized furniture and beloved property.

If you're in a high-risk area, a termite infestation is a risk at all times. One way to avoid a termite invasion in Yuba City is to spray your wooden surfaces with borate spray. You can apply it before you prime or paint, then it's beneath the surface but still acts as a major repellent. The spray is so strong, and termites hate it so much that one coat is enough to put them off for decades!

Try to make sure there's space between the soil in your flower beds and any surrounding wood. Earth is a cool, moist environment that they love, and wood is dinner. When you put the two near to each other, you're essentially creating a termite paradise. To prevent termite invasion in Yuba City, keep soil separate from wood in your yard.

If you've found a piece of furniture that's in the early stages of infestation, hope is not lost. You can place it out in the roasting Yuba City sun for a few days, and the termites will die. They only attack wood, which is moist, so drying the item should prevent further re-infestation, too. We'd also recommend spraying the infected wood with termite spray before taking it back indoors.

If one piece of furniture has been infested, it might be worth calling in the help of a Yuba City pest control company to make sure there isn't a bigger problem.

Newspapers, magazines, cardboard and paper are primary breeding grounds for termites. If you have these items stacked in piles in your study or spare room, they could be termite magnets. When you realize a room is contaminated, make sure you isolate the furniture in place. Moving it around the home is likely to spread the problem.

The main reason most people get any type of pests is moisture. Termites, in particular, can't stand the heat and dry. They love finding fresh, moist places to eat and lay their eggs. Make sure you regularly scout the entire property for leaks and damp areas. Areas near sinks and in the basement tend to be prime spots for moisture. Find and eliminate these areas, and you'll significantly decrease your risk of termite invasion in Yuba City.

Whether you need a termite inspection Yuba City or you've got a definite invasion, Joel's Pest Control can help. Call us today at 530-435-7897 for more information or to book an appointment.