6 chapters across the catalog
The niche but growing hobby of ant keeping is explored, featuring "Cole's Ants" and the business "Antlantis," which maintains 3,000 colonies. Enthusiasts build massive ant farms into walls and sometimes stage "Ant Wars" by pitting different colonies against each other. The discussion notes the irony of John C. Dvorak living on a hill in Albany, California, which is home to a massive "mega-colony" of Argentinian ants.
Sir Julian and the Argentinian Ant Burning Trick
Sir Julian donates to the show, prompting John C. Dvorak to recount his "ant burning trick" for managing Argentinian ants in California. Dvorak explains that these ants are a massive, non-hive-specific colony. He advises killing "scout ants" with a lighter to send a warning signal back to the nest, effectively deterring an invasion without using chemicals.
The mix features a detailed discussion about ant behavior, specifically "siege mode" and "sneak attacks" used by Argentinian ants. The audio describes how ants send out scouts to report back to the colony. This is interspersed with the recurring "in my house" heckler audio.
A discussion regarding an ant infestation at a West Coast studio leads to a detailed explanation of a unique pest control method. The strategy involves using a long-reach lighter to torch scout ants on kitchen counters while leaving the carcasses behind to "send a message" to the rest of the colony. This psychological approach to pest management is presented as an alternative to standard cleaning or chemical baits.
Argentinian Ant Infestation, California Super Colony
A discussion regarding the persistent infestation of Argentinian ants in California and Texas describes the species as a non-combative super colony that functions as a collective hive. Methods for eradication include vacuuming, chemical ant blocks, and the use of Scripto lighters to create a scent deterrent. The conversation notes that professional pest control services like Terminix often fail to provide a permanent solution to the recurring seasonal invasions.
John C. Dvorak describes a massive infestation of Argentinian ants in his kitchen following heavy rains in California. The discussion covers the unique behavior of these ants, which form giant interconnected colonies rather than fighting interlopers, and their tendency to travel along electrical lines and wall sockets. Advice is exchanged regarding extermination methods, including the use of Splenda or aspartame as a potential neurotoxin for ants, and the services of professional exterminators like Terminix.
