Though most ants share enough similarities that people recognize an ant when they see one, the different types of ants have their own characteristics hat make them unique. Ants are a global insect and though they do not know man made boundaries, different areas can have different species. In Texas, there are a few common to this region however, today we at A-Tex Pest Management would like to elaborate the fundamentals of pavement ants.

Pavement Ant Identification

From light brown to black, pavement ants vary in color but generally always have lighter appendages compared to the rest of their body that reaches up to an 8th of an inch long. Parallel lines on the head that lead to the thorax are another distinction. Pavement ants’ antennae is 12-segmented with a 3-segmented club.

How Do I Find a Pavement Ant Nest?

Beneath patios, driveways, and sidewalks are common habitats of the pavement ant. Hiding in these locations to build their colony, it is convenient and easy for them to get inside homes and businesses. They often intrude in the hopes to pilfer sweets, proteins, and hey will eat the dead insects along the way. They stealthily slip their way through the cracks and gaps of the basement floors, foundations, concrete slabs, and walls to look for food in trash, crumbs left behind, and in open food containers as well as any pet food they find inside or outside. If they find a convenient food source, they will stick around. Pavement ants will also nest beneath bricks, patio blocks, stones, and logs. These ants will also take advantage of mulch materials to nest underneath as well. Pavement ants will typically be drawn to the wall’s insulation and under floors when they decide to nest inside your home or business and can be a challenge to find the heart of the nest. If you suspect pavement ants inside your home or business, you need professional assistance for effective elimination. An indication they are nesting outside our home is when you see their mounds of pile dirt.

Do Pavement Ants Sting or Bite?

Pavement ants will sting if they are provoked, but generally, they are more of a nuisance, and are typically docile. Though these ants have a soft spot for sweets and meats, they are omnivorous and will eat anything. Honeydew from aphids living or dead insects, grease, and other edibles are frequently included in their diet.

How Many Pavement Ants are in a Colony?

Pavement ants include multiple queens and thousands of workers in each nest. When the queen lays her eggs, a new colony is established. Until they have developed into adulthood, the worker ants take care of the brood. To protect them from fluctuations in moisture and temperature, broods are transferred from location to location. Once pavement ants hatch from the eggs, the larval eventually grow into pupal stages until they become mature adults; their complete metamorphosis. Frequently during June and July, the swarmers that are equipped with wings, both males and females, are the reproducers who will mate. The females will search for new nesting areas and become the queen of a new colony after mating; starting the process over.

Ant Pest Inspections, Treatment, Control, Removal & More in Austin, Round Rock, Leander, Pflugerville & Cedar Park Texas

If you have pavement ants, or any other pest for that matter, call A-Tex Pest Management today and let our specialists take care of your pest infestations.