If you've used ant bait and mop the floor daily to control the ant infestation, and the ant trails from outside have stopped, it's possible that you have made significant progress in eliminating the ant colony. However, the presence of 2-7 ants around your kitchen cabinet daily suggests that there might still be some remaining ants or satellite colonies nearby.
Ants are social insects that live in colonies, and even if you manage to control the main colony, there could be smaller satellite colonies or individual ants that have established their nests nearby. Here are a few reasons why you might still see ants:
Satellite colonies: Ant colonies can have multiple satellite colonies, especially if the main colony is large or has been disturbed. These satellite colonies can continue to send foragers into your kitchen.
Foraging ants: Some ants might still be attracted to food sources in your kitchen even if their main colony has been disrupted. Even a few crumbs can be enough to sustain a small group of foraging ants.
New ants: Ants from neighboring areas might be exploring your kitchen in search of food, especially if they detect previous ant trails or pheromone trails left by the original colony.
Residual scent trails: Ants leave pheromone trails to communicate with each other and mark food sources. Even after the main colony is gone, these scent trails can persist for some time, attracting new ants.
To further address the remaining ant presence, you can take the following steps:
Continue to clean: Regularly clean your kitchen and mop the floors to remove any food residue that might attract ants.
Seal entry points: Check for any cracks or gaps in your home's exterior and seal them to prevent ants from coming back inside.
Use residual insecticides: Consider using residual insecticides or ant barriers around entry points to keep ants from entering your home.
Observe and monitor: Keep an eye on the ant activity and observe their behavior. If you notice any new ant trails, try to trace them back to their source to identify potential nests or entry points.
Consult a professional: If the ant infestation persists or worsens, it might be best to seek the assistance of a professional pest control service. They can identify the specific ant species and implement targeted solutions for effective eradication.
Remember that ant control can be an ongoing process, especially if there are other ant colonies nearby. Being vigilant and taking preventive measures can help you maintain a pest-free environment in your home.