(NewsUSA) – A new nationwide survey of licensed pest professionals uncovered some dirt on ants — from coast to coast, ant infestations are on the rise.

According to a survey called “Exploring America’s #1 Nuisance Pest,” by the National Pest Management Association (NPMA), 100 percent of respondents encountered ants in the last year, and 54 percent said ant infestations are growing — pointing to a problematic rise in carpenter ants. Respondents mentioned increases in moisture, changing pest control practices and new species among the reasons for the rise.

“Ants have always been a nuisance pest, but the findings about the increase of carpenter ant infestations is alarming. Carpenter ants tunnel through wood and nest inside homes, which can compromise a home’s structural stability,” said Missy Henriksen, vice president of public affairs for NPMA.

Ants with a taste for wood aren’t the only ones homeowners should worry about. Pest professionals are also seeing more odorous house ant infestations than in previous years. These ants are attracted to the sweet foods in your kitchen and make their homes inside wall cracks.

Although about one-third of pest professionals consider ants to be the most difficult pest to control, they agree that Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is the most effective control method. IPM combines common sense with sound solutions and includes eliminating sources of food, water and shelter that can be conducive to pests.

“Fortunately, our survey also shows that pest professionals are very successful in treating the majority of ant infestations through Integrated Pest Management, which utilizes a three-part practice of inspection, identification and treatment.”

Find a pest professional and information about ants at www.pestworld.org.