Search
Call us now 0800 783 0011
Get expert advice
Get in touch with our Pest Control team
Struggling with pests? Share your details and our experts will build a safe, effective plan for you.
When ants appear in high-risk environments such as kitchens, healthcare settings or client-facing spaces, they’re more than just a nuisance. They can compromise hygiene standards, damage materials, and lead to repeat callouts if not handled properly.
We employ a variety of strategies to eliminate ant infestations and prevent recurrence, tailoring their approach to the specific ant species and the severity of the problem.
Request more information
Common ant species in the UK
The UK is home to a diverse range of ant species, each with unique behaviours and habitats. Ants are highly social insects, living in colonies with a division of labour and typically consist of a queen, worker ants, and male ants. Worker ants forage for food, often following trails marked by pheromones and are attracted to sugary substances, proteins, and other food sources.
Common species of ant in the UK include:
Black Garden Ant (Lasius niger)
These are the most common species of ant in the UK and colonies can become quite large. Foraging ants will explore the areas around their nest and once a food source is identified they will communicate to the others. During the summer flying ants can erupt from the nests causing distress to people.
Pharaoh Ants (Monomorium pharaonis)
These are a very small, yellowish-brown tropical ants that can establish colonies comprising of hundreds of Queens indoors. They prefer warm environments and can be difficult to eradicate. They are known for their ability to spread rapidly throughout buildings and can spread bacteria. A typical insecticidal spray will only spread the colony.
We provide specialist treatments for all ant species. As the market leader in eco-friendly sustainable pest control, we follow an integrated pest management approach that is highly effective and minimises the effect on the environment.
Dedicated insect control experts
RSPH, NPTA accredited member, ISO certifications, and adherence to UK pest control regulations
UK wide coverage
Rapid response, local pest control teams and expertise available across England, Scotland, and Wales
45+ years’ experience
Proven track record of successfully protecting businesses, facilities, and homes across the UK
Sustainable methods
Pest solutions that are both effective and compliant with safety and hygiene regulations
Tailored approach
Designed to meet your sites long-term needs
Get a quote
“Nurture Pest Control have provided a very seamless implementation and has served our needs perfectly. I am delighted with the communication, reporting and quality of work completed by their team and confident they will continue to provide excellent pest protection for our customers. ”
Frank Maine, Property Contracts Manager, Hyde Group
Effortless
3 simple steps to an ant-free space
Contact us for a free no-obligation site assessment
Tell us about your pest problem and our qualified experts will assess your needs.
Receive a tailored plan
Get a tailored pest control plan specific to you.
Pest removal & monitoring
Relax knowing we will manage your pest problem, provide advice, and help plan a long-term sustainable solution.
Get your free consultation
Frequently asked questions
Can ants cause health problems or damage my property?
Yes. Ants can carry bacteria like E. coli, Salmonella, and Staphylococcus, and transfer them to food and kitchen surfaces. Some ant species such as the Carpenter Ant, Camponotus species, can also cause structural damage to properties when they create their nests.
How do I reduce the risk of ants?
Here are some tips to minimise your chance of attracting ants:
What are common signs of an ant infestation?
Typical signs of an ant infestation include live insects, ant pathways or trails leading to your property, and small heaps of earth indicating nesting sites.
How long does ant control take?
Initial reduction in activity is often visible within 24-72 hours. Complete control time varies with the species and nest location, but we always focus on long‑term prevention.
Do ants come back after treatment?
They can if underlying conditions remain – food attractants, moisture or unmanaged entry points. We offer advice and proofing to reduce this risk.
Can I treat ants myself?
DIY methods may kill some visible ants, but without targeting the nest and trails, infestations often return. Professional treatment addresses the root cause.
