Most ant species are completely harmless. However, there are a handful of species that can pose a serious threat. In this article, we’re going to go over these species and what you can expect when they infest your home.
Carpenter ants
Carpenter ants are the most damaging ant species in the US. Like termites, they will build their colonies inside wood, but they still maintain their ant diet, so they need to forage for food outside of their colonies. This is when you can spot them and identify that you have an infestation. Carpenter ants are noticeably larger than other species, so if you see large black ants roaming around your home, you should call over a pest control pro to help you get rid of the infestation.
Pharaoh ants
Pharaoh ants are tiny yellow ants that are very resilient, and which are known to spread numerous diseases. These ants will build colonies with multiple queens, and they will also spread out and build satellite colonies in the surrounding area. The infestation can quickly get out of hand, and given the fact that these ants spread diseases, they are definitely not a species that you want to have in your home.
Fire ants
Fire ants are quite famous. They are small and red in coloration, but some subspecies can come with different colors, including black. What really sets them apart however is their sting. These ants carry a powerful venom that they are able to inject multiple times, and they are known to be quite aggressive. This is especially true if you get too close to their nests, with dozens or even hundreds of workers springing out of the colony, climbing on the legs of the “intruder” and stinging repeatedly.
Odorous house ants
Odorous house ants are not as big of a threat as the species previously listed, but they are still a nuisance to have around the home. These ants will release a foul odor when they are squashed, which definitely makes them an unwelcome guest. Odorous house ants are quite small and they can be identified by their cream coloration.
If you notice any of these ant species in your home, it’s important to get rid of them ASAP because they can cause a lot of damage or pose a risk to your help. For more information about these ants, or if you have an infestation that needs to be removed, contact us today.
