Identifying the Different Types of Ants Invading Your Home

1. Carpenter Ants (Camponotus spp.)
   Carpenter ants are among the largest ant species notorious for causing structural damage to homes. These ants do not eat wood but excavate galleries to create their nests. You might be dealing with carpenter ants if you spot giant, black ants with segmented bodies and a single node between their thorax and abdomen. These pests are often found around moist or decaying wood, so check areas like window frames, doorways, and walls for signs of their presence.
2. Odorous House Ants (Tapinoma sessile)
   Odorous house ants, also known as sugar ants, emit a distinct, rotten coconut-like odor when crushed, hence their name. These tiny, brown, or black ants form long trails leading to food sources in your home. They often invade kitchens and pantries, seeking sweets and other food debris. Look for them near sinks, countertops, and around pet food dishes.
3. Pharaoh Ants (Monomorium pharaonis)
   Pharaoh ants are a major indoor pest, known for their small size and light-yellow coloration. They are highly adaptable and challenging to eradicate once established in a household. Pharaoh ants can be found in various locations, including kitchens, bathrooms, and electrical outlets. Their nesting sites can be challenging to locate, making professional help necessary for complete elimination.
4. Argentine Ants (Linepithema humile)
   Argentine ants are medium-sized ants that form supercolonies, making them a persistent problem when they invade your home. They are light to dark brown and have a single node between their thorax and abdomen. These ants prefer sweet foods but will eat almost anything. You may find them trailing along baseboards and countertops.
5. Pavement Ants (Tetramorium caespitum)
   Pavement ants are dark brown to black ants that get their name from their habit of nesting under pavement and sidewalks. They are attracted to various foods, including grease and sugary substances. Look for small piles of soil or sand near cracks in your home's foundation as a sign of their presence.
6. Acrobat Ants (Crematogaster spp.)
   Acrobat ants are unique in their ability to raise their abdomen above their thorax and head when disturbed. These ants are light to dark brown and prefer to nest in moist or decaying wood. Look for them near leaky pipes or damp areas, such as bathrooms and kitchens.