If you have a garden or farm, you're likely familiar with common pests that can wreak havoc on your plants. Leafcutter ants, in particular, are quickly becoming a serious issue for properties throughout the southern United States because of their diet and feeding habits. Here's what you should know about these insects and the best ant control methods to prevent infestations. 

What Are Leafcutter Ants?

Leafcutter ants are tiny red, black, or brown insects that grow up to 12 millimeters long or—if they're male—13 to 18 inches long. These critters live in large colonies and build nests as deep as 6 meters into the earth. They collect leaves and grass to sustain the fungus—their food source—that grows inside their nests.

Because of their feeding habits and the size of their colonies, these insects can cause serious problems for your landscape. They can remove leaves from plants and crops within hours, creating a substantial agricultural loss. Even if they nest on a property without a farm, these ants can destroy a garden and reduce its attractiveness.

What Are the Signs of an Infestation?

A noticeable trail of ants hauling bits of leaves and grass on their backs will alert you to an infestation. They could also be carrying other organic materials.

Even if you don't see these creatures, you could spot leaf tissue littering the trail from a garden or crop to a feeder hole. Also, it's common for a small or medium-sized tree to lose its foliage overnight if leafcutter ants are on the property. 

How Can You Eliminate Leafcutter Ants?

These critters only eat the fungus they cultivate with the leaves they forage. Because typical baits won't work on them, you'll need professional intervention to address the infestation.

An ant control expert will first need to locate the nest. Typically, the foraging trails and nesting mounds can be about a hundred feet away from the affected plants. After finding the nest, the professional will apply a non-repellent insecticide to the mound, trail, and vegetation.

It's difficult to prevent these insects from entering the property. However, you can lower the risk by regularly looking for destroyed plants, foraging trails, and nesting mounds. This measure will ensure you can apply the appropriate insecticide. 

If you need professional pest control to eliminate a leafcutter ant infestation, turn to Cox Termite & Pest Control in Savannah, GA. This local business offers various effective solutions to protect your home from unwanted critters, including flea, roach, rodent, and ant control services. They can also provide quarterly assistance to prevent insects and rodents from returning to your property. Call (912) 236-2503 or visit them online to request a free inspection.