Size
1/8”-1/4”
Color
Brown
Description
The Big-headed Ant can range from a dark yellow to a reddish brown in color, depending on the species. They nest in soft soil in colonies with multiple queens and workers tunnel between colonies to create a super-colony. There are two kinds of Big-headed ant workers. The larger warriors are protectors of the colony and can be distinguished by a head that is much larger than the body. The smaller workers have a head in proportion to the body.
The Big-headed ant is extremely invasive and will take over large areas of ground. Outside they feed on the honeydew produced by sap-sucking plant pests and in exchange for the honeydew will protect those insects, leaving plants more vulnerable to infestation. They may venture indoors in search of food or nest in potted plants.
Control Advice
Create a barrier of space between your home and your yard. Keep vegetation away from the home’s foundation and tree limbs trimmed back away from the house. Avoid plants that attract aphids and other sap-sucking pests.
Active Seasons
The Big-headed Ant is most active in spring and summer.