A common method to get rid of bull ants involves using a borax and sugar bait. The sugar attracts the ants, while the borax acts as a slow-acting poison that the worker ants carry back to the nest, hopefully killing the queen.
Here's a breakdown of how to get rid of bull ants:
1. Identify Bull Ant Trails and Nests:
- Observe the areas where you frequently see bull ants.
- Look for their nests, which are often mounds of dirt or hidden under rocks, logs, or paving.
2. Prepare the Borax Bait:
- Mix borax with sugar to create an attractive and poisonous bait. A common ratio is approximately 1 part borax to 3 parts sugar. Powdered sugar typically works best.
- Add a small amount of water to create a paste-like consistency. Avoid making the mixture too watery, as it needs to be carried back to the nest.
3. Place the Bait Strategically:
- Place the bait in shallow containers, such as bottle caps or small plastic lids.
- Position these containers near ant trails and suspected nest entrances. Ensure the containers are accessible to the ants but inaccessible to pets and children.
4. Let the Ants Do Their Work:
- Do not kill the ants you see. The worker ants need to carry the bait back to the colony to poison the queen and other ants.
- Replenish the bait as needed.
5. Monitor and Repeat:
- Check the bait stations regularly and refill them until you no longer see ant activity.
- It may take several days or weeks to eliminate the colony completely.
Important Considerations:
- Safety: Borax can be harmful if ingested. Keep the bait out of reach of children and pets. Wear gloves when handling borax.
- Persistence: Bull ant colonies can be large and resilient. You may need to repeat the baiting process multiple times to achieve complete eradication.
- Alternative Methods: If borax baiting is ineffective or not preferred, consider contacting a professional pest control service for alternative treatment options.
- Nest Removal: If possible, carefully excavate and remove the ant nest after the baiting process has taken effect. Be cautious, as disturbed ants may become aggressive.
By following these steps and remaining persistent, you can effectively reduce or eliminate bull ant populations around your property.
