Pavement Ant

Category:

Actual Size: 1/16″ to 1/8″

Characteristics: Light to dark brown to blackish; dark parallel lines run down the head and thorax.

Legs:

Antennae: Yes

Wings: The reproductive males and females have wings.

Habitat: Nests are located in open soil or under stones and pavement, masonry or wood, near sidewalks, patios, and driveways. 

 Habits

  • Prefers to feed on meat proteins and greasy foods.
  • Indoors, will build nests in walls, insulation, and floors.
  • Outdoors, will nest under flat stones, sidewalks, and concrete slabs.

Pavement Ants in Central Florida

The pavement ant gets its name from its practice of nesting beside and under driveways, sidewalks, and foundations. Ants pile the dirt removed from their nest in a mound on top of the pavement. Found throughout Florida, pavement ants colonies are established after mating flights in mid to late summer. As household pests, these ants are attracted to both greasy and sweet foods. Due to their close proximity to homes and buildings, these ants often make their way indoors in search of food. 

Pavement Ant Habitat

True to their name, pavement ants are most often found under or near sidewalks, patios, and driveways. Nests are located in the soil out in the open or under stones and pavement, masonry or wood. Pavement ant nests are usually located at ground level and workers use pipes or wires to move upward. In commercial buildings, they can become an issue when the reproductives emerge from openings in walls above false ceilings, then drop into the rooms below. Although they prefer to be outdoors in warm weather, during cold weather, they are more likely to be found in homes near a heat source, such as a radiator or heating duct. 

Pavement Ant Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers

These ants do not pose a public health risk, but they can contaminate food as they forage. They will scavenge for any kind of edible crumb and will invade buildings to find food resources for their substantial colonies. Pavement ants are a nuisance, causing unsightly piles of sand on driveways, patios, sidewalks, or in basements. When nests aren’t treated in time, pavement ants will continue to spread into new populations. If you suspect a pavement ant infestation, it is best to consult a professional ant exterminator. 

Don’t wait until your home is overrun by ants. Contact Heron Home today!