Ants and rodents are two of the most common yet underestimated household pests in Melbourne.
While you might occasionally see a trail of ants on your kitchen bench or hear faint scratching in your ceiling at night, these subtle signs often indicate a much larger hidden problem.
Melbourne’s changing weather conditions and urban landscape make it an ideal environment for ants and rodents to thrive.
Once they find food, warmth, and shelter, they settle in and multiply quickly. Ignoring early signs of infestation can lead to food contamination, property damage, and even health issues.
This is why hiring a professional pest control service is essential. Experienced exterminators can identify the root cause of infestations, treat them effectively, and prevent them from returning.
7 States Pest Control is one such trusted name in Melbourne, providing reliable and safe pest extermination services for homes and businesses alike.
Understanding Ants in Melbourne Homes
Ants are small but incredibly organised insects. They live in colonies that can grow into thousands and are constantly on the lookout for food and water sources. Once they find a steady supply, they establish trails to transport it back to their nests — often inside your home.
Common Ant Species in Melbourne
- Black House Ants: Commonly seen in kitchens and bathrooms, they are attracted to sugary and greasy food.
- Argentine Ants: Known for forming large colonies and spreading quickly between homes.
- Coastal Brown Ants: Usually nest under pavers, lawns, and along footpaths.
- Carpenter Ants: Unlike other ants, these can damage timber while building their nests inside wood structures.
Habits and Behaviour
Ants are social insects that work together in colonies. They communicate using pheromones, creating scent trails that lead other ants to food sources. These trails are often seen near benches, sinks, or pet food bowls.
They prefer nesting in warm, protected areas such as inside walls, under floors, and around foundations. During summer, their activity increases, making infestations more noticeable.
Understanding Rodents in Melbourne Homes
While ants are a nuisance, rodents pose a more serious risk to both property and health. Rats and mice are intelligent, adaptable, and capable of squeezing through extremely small gaps to enter your home.
Common Rodents Found in Melbourne
- House Mouse: Small, fast, and often found in roof voids, cupboards, and behind appliances.
- Norway Rat: Larger in size and prefers basements, garages, or lower floors.
- Roof Rat: Excellent climbers that nest in ceilings, attics, and upper areas of buildings.
How Rodents Enter and Hide
Rodents can enter through small cracks, broken vents, or gaps under doors and around pipes. Once inside, they seek out food sources and nesting spots in dark, quiet areas. Kitchens, roof cavities, and storage areas are their preferred hiding places.
Damage and Health Risks
- Structural Damage: Rodents chew through wood, insulation, and electrical wiring, creating fire hazards.
- Food Contamination: Their droppings and urine can contaminate food storage areas.
- Health Concerns: Rodents carry diseases like leptospirosis and salmonella, posing serious risks to humans and pets.
A single rodent sighting often indicates more hiding nearby. Early detection and professional treatment are key to preventing widespread infestation.
Comparing Ants vs Rodents
Although ants and rodents are both pests, their behaviours and the severity of their impact differ greatly.
| Aspect | Ants | Rodents |
| Activity Period | Mostly during warmer months | Year-round, especially in winter |
| Signs of Infestation | Trails, nests, dirt piles | Droppings, gnaw marks, scratching sounds |
| Type of Damage | Food contamination | Structural and electrical damage |
| Health Risks | Low to moderate | High |
| Treatment Urgency | Moderate | Urgent |
While ants can create hygiene issues, rodents demand immediate attention due to their destructive nature and disease risk.
How a Professional Pest Exterminator in Melbourne Can Help
Professional exterminators have the knowledge, tools, and experience to address infestations safely and effectively.
Inspection and Identification
The first step is a thorough inspection. Pest experts identify the type of pest, nesting areas, and entry points. Understanding the source of the problem ensures that treatment is both targeted and efficient.
Effective Treatment Options
Professionals use safe and environmentally friendly treatments designed to eliminate pests without harming your household. Common methods include:
- Ant Baiting Systems: These target entire colonies by attracting worker ants, which carry the bait back to the nest.
- Rodent Control Stations: Secure bait stations and traps eliminate rodents while preventing accidental exposure to pets or children.
- Entry Point Sealing: Blocking cracks, vents, and gaps helps prevent re-entry.
Long-Term Prevention
Pest exterminators also focus on prevention. They provide practical advice on maintaining cleanliness, managing waste, and sealing potential entry points. Follow-up visits ensure pests do not return.
Choosing an experienced pest exterminator in Melbourne, such as 7 States Pest Control, ensures that infestations are handled thoroughly and safely.
DIY vs Professional Pest Control
It’s tempting to try DIY methods, especially when the problem seems small. However, these home remedies often provide only short-term results.
Common DIY Methods
- Using sprays, powders, or traps from hardware stores.
- Cleaning surfaces with vinegar or bleach.
- Placing bait or homemade deterrents like peppermint oil or cloves.
While these may reduce visible pests temporarily, they rarely eliminate colonies or hidden nests.
Advantages of Hiring a Professional
- Accurate Identification: Professionals can distinguish between pest species and apply the right treatment.
- Safe and Effective Products: Licensed exterminators use products not available to the public, ensuring better and safer results.
- Time and Cost Efficiency: A professional service eliminates the problem at its source, saving you time and repeated expenses.
- Guaranteed Results: Most pest control companies offer service guarantees and follow-up inspections.
Investing in professional pest control is a long-term solution that ensures your home remains pest-free.
Ants and rodents are persistent invaders in Melbourne homes, often hiding where you least expect them. Ignoring early warning signs can lead to costly repairs, food contamination, and health hazards.
Prompt action through professional pest control not only removes the visible pests but also tackles the root of the infestation. Whether it’s a trail of ants in the kitchen or the sound of scratching in your ceiling, it’s best not to wait until the problem worsens.
For safe, effective, and professional pest extermination in Melbourne, contact 7 States Pest Control. Their experienced team provides comprehensive inspection, treatment, and prevention services to keep your home protected all year round.