Ants do not need any introduction; most people know an ant when they see one. Their tiny pinches and their obnoxious foraging can make anyone roll their eyes when they are seen in the home or in businesses. With so many types of ants found around the world, we at A-Tex Pest Management would like to list the most common ant species found in Texas.

Odorous House Ants

Odorous house ants have small dark brown or black bodies that measure about 1/8 in length. The rotten coconut smell it emits when crushed is the most forthcoming sign you have odorous house ants. Following a rainstorm is most common time these ants enter homes and businesses. When they are foraging for food or when they are swarming in the summer to create a new colony. They typically nest behind walls and under floors while being drawn to moist areas. These ants can contaminate food but are not linked to any diseases.

Pavement Ants

Pavement ants are among the most common in Ohio. With their legs and antennae lighter in color than their body, these ants range in color from light brown to black. They are also about 1/8 inches long. Indoors, pavement ants are found within walls and under floors and outdoors beneath stones and mulch. They will infiltrate homes and business to forage for food even if they nest outside. Though they prefer greasy foods, they will eat anything. Reproducing, swarming, and forming new colonies is usually done in the summer heat. They are not linked to diseases but will contaminate food. They generally only bite if they feel threatened.

Pharaoh Ants

These tiny ants are only about 5/64 inches in length. Pharaoh ants are light yellow in color and feature red and black markings on the abdomen. Using a building’s artificial heating, these ants thrive through winter. Pharaoh ants will move their nest if disturbed, adding a challenge to eliminating them. Pharaoh ants commonly nest beneath the floors and behind walls, in cabinets and other undisturbed dark areas. Their primary favorite is sweet food, but will eat nearly anything. Pharaoh ants are a problem due to their ability to contaminate food

Carpenter Ants

Carpenter ants can range from 1/8”-33/64” in length. They are more often black but can also be a reddish color. These ants are drawn to moist or decaying wood inside and outside. They do not eat the wood but dine on sweet foods as well as other insects. Though there is a common misconception they eat wood like termites, they do not. They excavate through the wood to make their nests. Because they tunnel through the wood, they leave it weak and damaged. If you suspect carpenter ants, you need a pro immediately. Decks, wood structures, fences, furniture, trees, and any wood is vulnerable to these ants.

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

No matter what type of ant species you have in your home or business, A-Tex Pest Management is readily available to assist you with our effective, safe methods.