Which method is commonly used to control ants?

The method commonly used to control ants is trapping with bait. This approach is effective because it specifically targets the foraging ants that collect food and bring it back to their colonies. When ants consume bait containing a slow-acting insecticide, they can transport it back to the nest, where it can eliminate other ants, including the queen, thereby addressing the root of the infestation.

Using bait is particularly advantageous as it minimizes the exposure of beneficial insects and reduces the necessity for widespread chemical applications. In contrast, methods like caulking may prevent ants from entering certain areas but do not actively eliminate the existing population. Spraying insecticide can kill visible ants but often fails to address the nest and may lead to ants dispersing to find new food sources. Burning the nest is an extreme and generally impractical method that poses safety risks and is not an effective long-term solution for ant control. Therefore, baiting stands out as a targeted and effective strategy for managing ant populations.