Open 7 days a week!

08 9493 1313
Back

Seasonal Ant Problems in Perth: What to Expect and When to Act

20 Jan 2025 | By Bug Busters

How can we Help?

Have you ever noticed an army of ants invading your home or business at certain times of the year? You’re not alone. Ant infestations in Perth follow seasonal patterns, with some months bringing an overwhelming surge in activity while others seem relatively quiet. Understanding these seasonal fluctuations is the key to preventing infestations before they become a major problem.

Perth’s warm climate creates the perfect environment for various ant species to thrive. During hotter months, ants invade properties in search of food and water, while cooler seasons drive them to establish nests in hidden spaces. If left unchecked, these tiny intruders can quickly become a nuisance, contaminating food, damaging structures, and even posing health risks.

So, when should you expect peak ant activity, and when is the best time to take action? In this guide, we’ll explore Perth’s seasonal ant problems, the common species to watch out for, and the most effective ways to protect your property. Whether you’re dealing with a sudden infestation or looking for long-term solutions, knowing when and how to act can make all the difference. For those seeking expert help, professional ant control in Perth ensures a targeted approach to eliminate these persistent pests.

Read: How to Prevent Ant Infestations in Perth Homes

Seasonal Ant Activity: What to Expect

Ant activity in Perth fluctuates throughout the year, with different seasons bringing unique challenges. While ants are present year-round, their behaviour changes based on temperature, humidity, and food availability. Understanding these patterns can help you take the right action at the right time to prevent infestations from escalating.

Summer (Peak Infestation Season)

Summer is the most active season for ants in Perth. As temperatures rise, so does their need for water and food, driving them indoors.

  • Why Ants Invade in Summer
    The scorching heat forces ants to seek moisture, making kitchens, bathrooms, and other damp areas prime targets. They are also on the hunt for sugary and greasy food sources, often leading them straight into pantries and garbage bins.
  • Common Ant Species in Summer
    • Black House Ants – One of the most common species, attracted to sugary foods.
    • Coastal Brown Ants – Often found in sandy areas, known for forming large colonies.
    • Argentine Ants – Extremely aggressive and known for displacing other ant species.
  • Signs of Infestation
    • Long trails of ants lead to food or water sources.
    • Small piles of dirt or sand near entry points, indicating underground nests.
    • Ants appearing in large numbers near kitchen sinks, pet bowls, and bathrooms.
  • What to Do in Summer
    • Keep food sealed in airtight containers.
    • Wipe down surfaces to remove food crumbs and spills.
    • Fix leaking taps and eliminate standing water.
    • Seal cracks and entry points where ants may be sneaking in.

Autumn (Colony Expansion and Nesting Season)

As temperatures cool down, ant colonies begin preparing for the months ahead. This is the season when they expand their nests and build stronger colonies.

  • Why Ants Are Active in Autumn
    Ants take advantage of the milder weather to establish new nests and reinforce existing ones. They also increase foraging activity to build food reserves before winter.
  • Common Ant Species in Autumn
    • Pavement Ants – Often found near footpaths and driveways, nesting under cracks.
    • Bull Ants – Large, aggressive ants that can deliver painful stings.
    • White-Footed House Ants – Known for their persistent indoor infestations.
  • Signs of Infestation
    • Increased outdoor ant activity, particularly near garden beds and patios.
    • Ant nests appearing in lawns, under pavers, and around tree roots.
    • More ants indoors as they search for protein-based foods to sustain their colony.
  • What to Do in Autumn
    • Trim vegetation and clear away garden debris to reduce nesting spots.
    • Inspect your home’s exterior for small cracks and crevices where ants can enter.
    • Use baiting techniques to target ant colonies before they move indoors.
    • Schedule a professional inspection if you notice large ant populations.

Winter (Lower Activity but Hidden Infestations)

Winter may seem like a time when ants disappear, but they often go unnoticed rather than inactive. Many colonies retreat into warmer, hidden spaces, such as inside walls and under floors.

  • Why Ants Are Still a Problem in Winter
    While colder weather slows down their foraging, ants continue to survive indoors, thriving in the warmth of human homes. They also reproduce during this time, meaning an unnoticed infestation can become a serious problem in spring.
  • Common Ant Species in Winter
    • Black House Ants – These ants can remain active in heated indoor environments.
    • Carpenter Ants – Known for nesting in wood, potentially causing structural damage.
    • Ghost Ants – Small, difficult to detect, and commonly found near moisture sources.
  • Signs of Infestation
    • Occasional ant sightings, especially in warm, dark areas like cupboards and wall voids.
    • Faint rustling sounds inside walls, indicating ant movement.
    • Piles of sawdust-like material, suggesting carpenter ant activity.
  • What to Do in Winter
    • Pay attention to even minor ant activity—small problems can escalate quickly.
    • Store firewood away from the house to avoid attracting carpenter ants.
    • Deep clean hidden areas such as under appliances and inside cabinets.
    • If you suspect a hidden nest, it’s best to consult an ant exterminator to prevent further damage.

Spring (Breeding and Swarming Season)

Spring is a crucial time for ant colonies as they enter their breeding and swarming phase. During this season, reproductive ants (winged alates) emerge in large numbers, searching for new locations to establish nests.

  • Why Ants Swarm in Spring
    Warmer temperatures and increased humidity create ideal conditions for ant reproduction. Large colonies will send out winged ants to start new nests, which can quickly lead to widespread infestations.
  • Common Ant Species in Spring
    • Flying Ants (Alates) – Reproductive ants that swarm in large numbers during breeding season.
    • Fire Ants – Aggressive ants with painful stings, more active in warmer months.
    • Garden Ants – Frequently found in lawns and flower beds, moving closer to homes.
  • Signs of Infestation
    • Swarms of flying ants gathering around windows and lights.
    • Small mounds of soil in the garden, indicating newly formed nests.
    • Ant trails leading from outdoor areas into kitchens and pantries.
  • What to Do in Spring
    • Seal windows and vents to prevent flying ants from entering.
    • Remove organic debris and wood piles from outdoor spaces.
    • Treat nests early before they expand and become harder to control.
    • Monitor garden areas closely and use bait stations to prevent colonies from growing.

By understanding how ant activity shifts with the seasons, you can take proactive steps to protect your home or business year-round. Whether it’s preventing a summer infestation, stopping a spring swarm, or addressing hidden winter colonies, acting at the right time can make all the difference in keeping ants under control.

Read: Spring is here – And so are the ants!

When to Act: Preventative vs. Reactive Approaches

Dealing with ants in Perth requires both preventative measures and reactive treatments depending on the severity of the infestation. While some ant problems can be controlled with simple DIY methods, larger, persistent infestations often require professional intervention. Here’s a breakdown of when and how to act for the best results.

Preventative Measures: Stopping Ants Before They Invade

The best way to deal with ants is to prevent them from entering your home or business in the first place. Taking proactive steps year-round can significantly reduce the chances of an infestation.

1. Seal Entry Points

Ants are tiny, and they can enter through the smallest cracks and crevices. To keep them out:

  • Inspect doors, windows, and walls for gaps or holes and seal them with caulk or weather stripping.
  • Install door sweeps to block access from underneath doors.
  • Check plumbing and electrical entry points for small openings and seal them off.

2. Maintain a Clean Environment

Food and water are the main reasons ants invade indoor spaces. Keeping your home or workplace clean can make it less attractive to them.

  • Wipe down kitchen counters and dining tables after meals.
  • Store food in airtight containers to prevent ants from detecting scents.
  • Regularly take out the trash and ensure bins have tight-fitting lids.
  • Clean up pet food bowls and avoid leaving food out overnight.

3. Control Moisture Levels

Ants need water to survive, and damp environments attract them.

  • Fix leaking taps, pipes, and air conditioning units.
  • Ensure good ventilation in bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.
  • Use a dehumidifier in high-moisture areas to make conditions less inviting for ants.

4. Outdoor Prevention Strategies

Since many ant colonies start outdoors, it’s crucial to minimise their presence around your property.

  • Trim bushes, trees, and shrubs away from the building to prevent ants from using them as bridges.
  • Keep firewood, mulch, and garden debris away from walls, as these provide perfect nesting spots.
  • Use gravel or stone instead of mulch in areas close to your home, as organic mulch can attract ants.

Read: Avoiding ant infestations: Brigitte’s story

DIY Methods: Quick Fixes for Minor Ant Issues

If you’ve noticed a small number of ants but no major infestation, some home remedies and store-bought solutions may be enough to deter them.

1. Natural Deterrents

Several household items can disrupt ant trails and discourage them from entering your home.

  • Vinegar: A 50/50 mix of vinegar and water can erase ant scent trails.
  • Lemon or Citrus Peels: The acidic properties repel ants and mask their trails.
  • Chalk or Baby Powder: Some ant species avoid chalky substances due to their texture.

2. Ant Baits and Traps

Commercial ant baits work by attracting worker ants, who then carry poisoned food back to their colony.

  • Baits are effective for tackling hidden nests since they eliminate the entire colony over time.
  • Place baits in areas where you notice ant activity but keep them away from children and pets.
  • Avoid spraying ants directly, as this only kills visible ants without addressing the source of the problem.

3. Soapy Water or Boiling Water for Outdoor Nests

If you locate an ant nest outside:

  • Pouring soapy water into the nest can suffocate and disrupt the colony.
  • For larger nests, boiling water can be effective, but multiple treatments may be needed.
  • Exercise caution when dealing with aggressive species like bull ants.

When to Call a Professional: Signs You Need Expert Help

While DIY methods can help with minor infestations, larger or persistent ant problems require professional pest control solutions. Here are some signs it’s time to call an expert.

1. Large-Scale Infestations

If you’re seeing hundreds or thousands of ants in multiple locations, it’s a sign that a well-established colony is nearby. Killing the visible ants won’t solve the problem because their nest remains active.

2. Recurring Ant Problems

If you keep treating an infestation and the ants return within weeks, it indicates that the colony has not been completely eliminated. Ants are highly resilient, and many DIY solutions only provide short-term relief.

3. Ants Inside Walls or Hard-to-Reach Areas

Some ants, like carpenter ants, create nests inside wooden structures, which can weaken your home’s foundation over time. If you hear rustling sounds in walls or notice small piles of sawdust-like debris, professional treatment is essential.

4. Presence of Flying Ants (Swarmers)

Swarming ants indicate a mature colony that is ready to expand. If you see flying ants indoors or around your property, it’s crucial to act fast before they establish new nests.

5. Ants in Food Storage Areas

Ants in your kitchen, pantry, or food storage areas pose a hygiene risk. Since they can carry bacteria, it’s important to eliminate infestations before they contaminate food.

Why Professional Ant Control is More Effective

Professional pest control services offer targeted solutions that go beyond temporary fixes. Here’s why expert treatment is the best choice for severe infestations:

  • Identification of Species and Tailored Treatment – Different ant species require different treatment methods. Professionals can correctly identify the species and apply the most effective solution.
  • Use of Advanced Baits and Non-Toxic Treatments – Pest control experts use commercial-grade baits and environmentally friendly solutions that are more effective than over-the-counter products.
  • Long-Term Prevention Strategies – Professionals don’t just eliminate the current infestation—they also provide preventive measures to stop ants from coming back.
  • Safe and Efficient Extermination – DIY pesticides can be harmful if misused. A licensed pest control expert ensures safe application without putting your family, pets, or employees at risk.

While preventative measures and DIY methods can help keep ants at bay, infestations can quickly spiral out of control if left untreated. If you’re dealing with persistent ant activity, professional intervention is the best way to eliminate the problem for good. Knowing when to act—and whether to take a preventative or reactive approach—can save you time, money, and frustration in the long run.

How Bug Busters Can Help

Ant infestations can be frustrating, persistent, and difficult to eliminate without expert intervention. While DIY solutions may provide temporary relief, they often fail to address the root cause of the problem. That’s where Bug Busters comes in—offering professional, effective, and long-term solutions to keep your home or business ant-free.

Comprehensive Ant Inspection Services

Before treating an ant infestation, the first step is a thorough inspection. Bug Busters’ experienced technicians will:

  • Identify the species of ants causing the problem.
  • Locate nests, entry points, and food sources.
  • Assess environmental factors that may be attracting ants.
  • Determine the best treatment plan based on the severity of the infestation.

Understanding the specific ant species is crucial because different ants require different treatment methods. For example, black house ants respond well to baiting, while coastal brown ants require targeted nest treatments.

Tailored Ant Treatment Plans

Once the source of the infestation is identified, Bug Busters implements a customised treatment plan designed for long-lasting results.

1. Advanced Ant Baiting Techniques

  • Professional-grade baiting systems attract worker ants, which then carry poison back to the nest.
  • This approach eliminates entire colonies rather than just the visible ants.
  • Baits are strategically placed in high-activity areas while keeping pets and children safe.

2. Safe and Effective Chemical Treatments

  • Low-toxicity, eco-friendly treatments are applied to nesting areas and common entry points.
  • Residual insecticides provide long-term protection by preventing ants from returning.
  • Treatments target both indoor and outdoor infestations, ensuring a complete solution.

3. Nest Elimination for Lasting Results

  • Surface treatments alone won’t eliminate an infestation if the nest remains active.
  • Bug Busters’ specialists use deep-penetration treatments to reach hidden nests in walls, under floors, or in outdoor soil.
  • Eliminating the queen and worker ants ensures the colony cannot rebuild.

Ongoing Prevention and Maintenance Services

Even after an infestation is removed, preventing future ant problems is essential. Bug Busters offers ongoing maintenance services to keep your property protected year-round.

1. Barrier Treatments

  • Applying long-lasting repellents around the perimeter of your home or business.
  • Creating a protective barrier that stops ants from entering in the first place.
  • Regular reapplications for continued effectiveness, especially before peak seasons.

2. Entry Point Sealing and Recommendations

  • Identifying and sealing gaps, cracks, and openings where ants are gaining access.
  • Providing expert advice on food storage, moisture control, and sanitation practices.
  • Recommendations tailored to residential, commercial, or industrial settings.

3. Scheduled Inspections and Monitoring

  • Routine inspections to detect early signs of ant activity before it becomes a problem.
  • Monitoring bait stations and treated areas to ensure long-term effectiveness.
  • Immediate intervention if new infestations arise.

Why Choose Bug Busters for Ant Control?

With years of experience in pest control, Bug Busters has established itself as a trusted provider of ant pest control in Perth. Here’s why customers continue to rely on our expertise:

Experienced Professionals – Our technicians are trained to identify and treat all common ant species found in Perth.
Eco-Friendly Solutions – We use environmentally responsible treatments that are safe for families, pets, and workplaces.
Guaranteed Results – Our treatments are designed to eliminate the problem at its source, providing long-term protection.
Fast and Efficient Service – We understand that ant infestations need immediate attention, which is why we offer prompt and reliable solutions.
Customised Plans for Every Property – Whether you need residential, commercial, or industrial ant control, we tailor our services to meet your specific needs.

Take Control of Your Ant Problem Today

Ant infestations can quickly get out of hand, but with professional help, they don’t have to. Whether you’re dealing with a small issue or a large-scale infestation, Bug Busters provides effective, long-lasting pest control solutions to keep your property ant-free.

If you’re struggling with ants, don’t wait until the problem worsens—contact Bug Busters today for an expert ant pest control company and reclaim your space from unwanted pests.

Final Showdown: Outsmarting Ants Before They Take Over

Are you tired of seeing ants marching across your kitchen, bathroom, or outdoor spaces no matter how many times you try to get rid of them? Ant infestations in Perth follow a seasonal cycle, and knowing when to act can be the difference between a minor nuisance and a full-blown invasion.

From peak summer infestations to hidden winter colonies, ants are persistent creatures that require more than just temporary fixes. Preventative measures like sealing entry points, eliminating food sources, and maintaining cleanliness can help, but sometimes, DIY solutions aren’t enough—especially when dealing with large colonies or aggressive species.

When ant problems persist or return season after season, professional intervention becomes essential. A targeted ant pest control service not only eliminates existing infestations but also provides long-term protection, ensuring ants don’t make a comeback. With expert inspection, advanced treatments, and preventative strategies, Bug Busters helps homeowners and businesses stay one step ahead of these unwelcome invaders.

Don’t wait until ants overrun your space—act now to protect your property. Contact Bug Busters today and put an end to your ant troubles once and for all!

Testimonials

We had an appointment scheduled very quickly and easily with Bug Busters. Aaron was on time and a true professional. He was knowledgable, open, and explained the whole process easily and clearly. Gave us a guarantee that our problems would be solved and if there were any future issues he would attend to them himself with the utmost expedience. Aaron was a real pleasure to work with and i feel significantly more comfortable after working with him. Would recommend their services to anyone who needed them.

Chey Bowers

I found the young man named Deryn who came to deal with our rodent problem to be extremely polite, personable and knowledgeable. He was on time and friendly and knew a lot about the behaviours of the rat species. I would highly recommend Bug busters and will definately them for future pest problems when they arise.

Sarah Garrett

Bugbusters installed termite traps around my house and shed many years ago. Every 3 months the traps are inspected for any termite activity. At intervals the house, ceiling and shed are are checked for termites. They have also dealt with wasp infestations and put rat baits in the ceiling.. Their operatives have always been helpful and friendly. I would recommend Bugbusters to anyone.

Margo Beilby

I have used Bug Busters on a number of occassions over the last 15 years. The last time only a few days ago.. Derryn was absolutely client focussed; professional; neat and cleaned up impeccably my jarrah floors that had just been re varnished. I have no hesitation to recommend this company.. Five stars from me. Paul Vic Park.

Paul Fernandez

Staff friendly and courteous and provide excellent customer service. Contractors efficient and knowledgeable and are always willing to provide extra assistance when required. Highly recommend this company for residential and commercial pest treatments.

Peta Santella