Pharaoh Ants Removal
| Quick Facts | |
|---|---|
| Size | 1/16″ to ⅛” |
| Body | Small, segmented |
| Color | Commonly light yellow to red, with black markings on the abdomen |
| Legs | 6 |
| Antennae | Yes – 12 segments with a 3-segmented club |
| Wings | No |
Habitat:
- Moisture-rich areas under flat stones, sidewalks, concrete slabs
- Inside under floors, wall voids, baseboards – mostly in spots near moisture like bathrooms and kitchens
Habits:
- Prefer to feed on sweets and other insects
- If disturbed, colonies can scatter and create multiple new colonies
- Can spread infectious diseases
- They do not swarm during mating like other ant species
Pharaoh Ants are considered to be the most difficult household ant to terminate given their unique way of forming new colonies. They live in moisture-rich areas and feed on sweet foods and other insects. An infestation can grow very quickly if not treated properly.
Pharaoh Ant Habitat
Pharaoh Ants are attracted to moisture so they nest in shaded areas or under rocks or debris. Inside, they are found in kitchens and bathrooms, under floors and behind baseboards, and in wall voids. They travel between rooms using wires and pipes and can spread very quickly. They have a unique way of creating colonies called “budding” where they split off from the original colony and create new colonies in a different area. This can happen when a colony is disturbed with the incorrect pesticide, making them very hard to exterminate.
Pharaoh Ant Behaviors and Dangers
The biggest threat that Pharaoh Ants pose is to hospitals or other care facilities as they are able to carry infectious organisms, such as salmonella and dysentery, and contaminate sterile equipment. Because they can spread so rapidly, it is important to intervene early and with the correct treatment. They can also bite, but they are not poisonous.
What to do if you have a Pharaoh Ant infestation
Do not try to treat a Pharaoh Ant infestation by yourself as they are immune to most household pest control products. Call The Bug Man and Queen Bee! We have experienced technicians that can investigate the issue and come up with a treatment plan that will eliminate the threat in a safe and effective way. Our office staff is knowledgeable and can answer any questions and will get you on the schedule as soon as possible (sometimes the next day!). As a locally owned, family company we strive to meet, or exceed, our customers’ expectations. Call or email us today!