Pavement Ants Pest Control

Introduction

• Scientific name is: Tetramorium caespitum
• Digs an underground nest next to rocks, sidewalks, and driveways.

Identification

• 1/6 of an inch in length
• Dark brown color
• Push soil into conical mounds around entrance to nests

Mannerisms of Pavement Ants

• Utilize pheromone trails to locate food sources and attract colony members to it.

• Search for food 30 feet or more from nests
  • Food sources include: grease, oils, seeds, sweets, and honeydew
• Found inside homes after heavy rainfalls that drench their underground homes.
• Invade rival ant colonies for resources and living space
• Can bite and sting humans, but they are rarely noticed and completely harmless.

Prevention

Pavement ants can be dealt with the same way as Carpenter ants, but they are not found indoors nearly as often. Spraying down vinegar or lemon juice is effective as is keeping the kitchen counters clean of sugary foods that may attract ants. Pest control starts by keeping a clean home.