What Types of Ants Are in My Kitchen?
Ants have been called the number one nuisance pest in the United States, and for good reason. There are more than 700 species of ants in this country, and some species can infest homes. Infestations aren’t just frustrating; they can also lead to serious problems like contaminated food or even property damage. If ants move into your kitchen, identifying the species is an important first step. We often encounter these common types of ants.
Argentine Ants
These dark brown ants range between 1/16 and 1/4-inch long. They like to build their colonies in wet areas that are near food, so kitchens are a prime location to find Argentine ants. When you crush one of these ants, you may notice a musty smell.
Carpenter Ants
At 5/8-inch long, these reddish-brown ants are one of the larger types of ants you’ll find in your kitchen. Since they build their nests in wood, they can cause severe property damage.
Sugar Ants
The term “sugar ant” is used to describe various species of sugar-loving ants. These ants are nuisances since they contaminate foods like honey and syrup.
Crazy Ants
If you see ants running in erratic patterns, they could be crazy ants. These ants don’t follow trails as often as other types of ants. These dark-colored, small ants will often nest away from their food sources, so finding the colony can be challenging.
Odorous House Ants
Odorous house ants produce a memorable odor when they’re crushed. The smell has been compared to rotten coconuts. These dark-colored ants are 1/16 to 1/8-inch long and are bad news because they can contaminate food.
Pavement Ants
These ants get their name from their preferred nesting spot: under pavement cracks. Cracks in concrete can let them slip indoors, where they can contaminate food. Watch out for these 1/8-inch-long, dark-colored ants.
Red Imported Fire Ants
Fire ants are a well-known nuisance outdoors, but surprisingly, they can invade homes, too. Food and drink spills or uneaten pet food can lure these pests to your kitchen. Remember, they can give you a nasty sting if they’re disturbed.
Apex Pest Control is one of the most trusted Orlando pest control companies in the state. We’re proud of the work we do to help keep the homes, landscape, and businesses in our community free from harmful plants, insects, and animals, while also striving to maintain a balance with the ecosystem as a whole. Check out our blog or contact us today to learn more!
