SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) — If you’ve noticed more ants this year, you’re not alone.

Many people in KELOLAND have seen the little bugs crawling around their homes. They show up in a mass, an army, a colony, whatever you want to call it. It’s hard not to notice ants this year.

“We are finding them in the driveway, on the sidewalk, in the lawn, and even on the street,” said Entomologist Amanda Bachman.

“I’ve heard reports from people that are noticing more ants, definitely from sort of the southeast corner of the state. As an entomologist, I feel like my view can be kind of skewed because I’m always noticing ants. But there might be some localized areas where ants had a really good year. Last year it was kind of a mild winter,” said Bachman.

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Ryan Anderson, who owns Anderson Pest Control, he says his company is fielding more calls about ants.

“Especially ants in yards, its about the same inside houses, but outside is definitely more ant hills outside,” said Anderson.

Ants don’t pose the risk of other insects; they are more of a nuisance, especially if they show up inside your home.

“I really encourage folks to follow the ants, so before you squish first and ask questions, if you can follow the ants, they will generally lead you to either where they are finding food or where they are getting in,” said Bachman.

You can then put ant bait at that location, if it is safe for kids and pets. Another thing to consider before killing ants is that they can be beneficial. They are a natural pest control, consuming grubs and aphids in lawns.

“They are actually good for the soil,” said Anderson. “They kind of aerate the soil. Too many of them is bad; they can damage a lawn if you get too many, so too many ant hills.”

The bottom line if they are not bothering you, it may be best to leave the ants alone. Anderson says if you want to get rid of ants, you can call a professional pest expert or you can also lay down ant bait yourself or apply a dry powder or liquid ant killer.

However, Bachman warns the ants may simply move and split the colony in two, which could lead to even more ants around your house.

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