Every year, homeowners across the country brace for the inevitable appearance of ants. But some years seem worse than others — and 2025 has been especially active for ant sightings. You’re not imagining it. Ants are absolutely everywhere this year, from kitchens and patios to driveways and even inside cars. So what gives?
In this blog post, we’ll explore why ants are so prevalent this year, when you can expect their activity to decrease, and the best ways to prepare your home — naturally and effectively — to keep them away. Whether you’re battling a full-blown infestation or seeing the early signs of trouble, this guide will help you take action now and plan ahead for the seasons to come.
So… Why Are Ants So Bad This Year?
Environmental conditions heavily influence ant populations. The number of ants you’re seeing in and around your home this year likely comes down to a few key factors:
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1. Unusual Weather Patterns
Ants thrive in warm, moist environments. The winter of 2024–2025 was milder in many parts of the country, followed by a rainy spring and early summer. These conditions create ideal nesting and foraging opportunities for ant colonies. The result? Colonies are growing faster, and ants are more active — and visible — than in drier, colder years.
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2. Increased Soil Moisture
More rain means more plant growth, and more plant growth means more food and moisture sources for ants. Wet soil is also easier for ants to tunnel through when building their elaborate underground homes.
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3. Food Availability
Ants are scavengers. With the rise in outdoor dining, home gardening, and composting, ants have an abundance of accessible food sources in both urban and suburban environments. Even small crumbs or pet food left outdoors can invite an entire colony
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4 Population Cycles
Like many insects, ant populations follow cycles. Some years naturally bring larger numbers as colonies mature and produce more queens and workers. If last year was a strong breeding year, you’ll see the results this season in the form of higher populations.
When Do Ants Increase and Decrease?
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Spring (March–May):
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This is when ant activity starts to rise. As temperatures warm, worker ants emerge from underground nests to forage for food and water. You may also see winged ants (called swarmers) as colonies release reproductive ants to form new colonies.
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Summer (June–August):
Peak season. This is when you’ll see ants in your kitchen, around pet bowls, near trash cans, and swarming driveways or sidewalks. Activity is highest during warm, humid weather.
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Fall (September–October):
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Ants begin preparing for winter by storing food and retreating to deeper underground nests. Activity outside decreases, but indoor infestations may rise as ants seek shelter from cooler weather.
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Winter (November–February):
Ant activity slows down significantly in colder climates. But in warmer regions or inside heated homes, ants can remain active year-round.
How to Prepare for Ants (Before They Become a Problem)
✅ 1. Seal Entry Points
Ants are tiny. They can fit through cracks in baseboards, gaps around windows, doors, and plumbing lines. To stop them from getting in:
Use silicone caulk to seal cracks and gaps.
Install door sweeps and weather stripping.
Check for tears in window screens.
Seal openings around utility pipes and vents.
✅ 2. Eliminate Moisture
Ants are drawn to moisture. Leaky pipes, standing water, or overwatered gardens create attractive environments for them. Prevent this by:
Fixing plumbing leaks promptly.
Using a dehumidifier in basements and bathrooms.
Avoiding overwatering outdoor plants and gardens.
Ensuring proper drainage away from your foundation.
✅ 3. Keep Things Clean
Food attracts ants — especially sugary and greasy crumbs. Some of the most common ant-attracting areas include:
Kitchen counters and floors.
Pet food bowls.
Trash bins and compost containers.
Outdoor BBQs and picnic areas.
Tips:
Store food in airtight containers.
Wipe down surfaces daily.
Sweep and vacuum regularly.
Rinse recyclables before disposal.
Clean up spills immediately.
✅ 4. Maintain Your Yard
Outdoor nests often lead to indoor problems. Reduce the chance of ant infestations by:
Trimming back shrubs and tree branches touching your house.
Keeping firewood stored away from the foundation.
Clearing leaf piles and yard debris.
Using mulch sparingly near the home (it retains moisture).
✅ 5. Use Natural Deterrents
If you’re looking for safe, eco-friendly ways to deter ants:
Cinnamon: Sprinkle along entryways and window sills.
Vinegar Spray: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water to clean surfaces.
Peppermint Oil: Ants dislike strong smells. Add a few drops to cotton balls and place near entry points.
Lemon Juice: Acts as a scent barrier that disrupts ant trails.
✅ 6. Monitor Early Warning Signs
The earlier you detect ants, the easier they are to manage. Watch for:
Scout ants crawling along floors or counters.
Small piles of dirt or sand near baseboards.
Swarmers (winged ants) emerging from walls or windows.
Trails leading to pet food or crumbs.
If you spot one of these signs, it’s time to act fast.
When Should You Call a Professional?
If you’ve tried all the DIY methods and still have ants returning, it may be time to call in the pros. A pest control expert can identify the species (some, like carpenter ants, can cause structural damage), find the nests, and recommend a treatment plan.
Look for companies that offer eco-friendly or organic ant control options if you prefer to avoid harsh chemicals.
Final Thoughts: The Ant Surge of 2025
So, to sum it all up: ants are especially prevalent this year due to a mix of environmental factors — a mild winter, moist soil, and abundant food. Their population increases in early spring, peaks in summer, and decreases in the fall and winter.
The best way to protect your home is by being proactive:
Seal entry points.
Remove moisture and food sources.
Use natural deterrents.
Watch for early signs.
Call a professional if needed.
Ants may be inevitable in the outdoor world, but they don’t have to take over your home. A little preparation goes a long way in keeping these persistent pests at bay.
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Need help getting started with prevention or already dealing with an infestation? Contact Truly Green Pest Control service today to discuss an ant prevention plan that’s safe for your family and the environment.
