Size
1/8”
Color
Dark brown
Description
Odorous House Ants are tiny ants that feed on insects, sweet fruits, and honeydew produced by aphids and other plant pests. They create nests in logs or under leaves, or dig shallow nests underground or under rocks. Colonies of Odorous house ants can be very large with multiple queens and thousands of workers. They swarm in late summer to early fall in search of new nesting sites.
Odorous House Ants will nest indoors in small wall spaces and under flooring or carpeting. They will venture out searching for sweet foods, meat, fruits, vegetables, and baked goods, creating a trail from their food sources to their nest. When crushed they give off a foul smell. If a swarm is seen indoors it may be an indication that they are searching for a new nesting site.
Control Advice
Follow the trail back to the nest site and treat the nest directly. If a swarm has entered the home, vacuum the ants and discard them away from the home.
Active Seasons
Odorous House ants are most active in spring, summer and fall.