Ants are persistent little soldiers, who scout out your house and then bring in reinforcements by the hundreds. Spotting one or two little ants can lead to finding a black stream of invaders a few hours or days later. When dealing with an ant problem it is important to know the type of ant you are dealing with and the kind of damage it can do to your property. Below we will discuss the most common ants you will find in Charlotte, NC, and the threat they can pose to you.
The Ant Species
Pavement Ants
Pavement ants are a harmless nuisance to humans. Commonly found under pavements, these ants are dark brown or black and can be found anywhere in the United States.
Odorous House Ants
Odorous House Ants are similar in color to pavement ants but can be a little smaller. When killed, this species of ant gives off a rotten coconut odor, which is an explanation for its name. Odorous house ants can be found anywhere in the United States and can make their colonies in the soil, under floors, in walls, or in other cracks inside of houses.
Argentine Ants
Argentine Ants are dark brown and can be found in the eastern states. Much like the odorous house ants, Argentine ants have a foul odor when crushed. These ants do not cause property damage but can be a common household annoyance.
Crazy Ants
Crazy Ants are pesky little bugs that run erratically around searching for food. These types of ants will nest under carpet, floorboards, or in soil outside. These dark brown ants have a gray shine to them and they are common throughout the country. Their main source of food is honeydew and when their sources run low or are washed away by rain, crazy ants will search for food in any nearby structure.
Carpenter Ants
Carpenter Ants are ants you do not want around. These wood-eating insects will destroy wood indiscriminately, tunneling through walls, beams, furniture, or foundations. These ants prefer cold, wet climates that northern states can provide, but can be found just about anywhere. Carpenter ant colonies can typically be found outside near wood sources where scouts will travel through shrubs, cracks, or dirt to find new food. These types of ants can cause extreme property damage and should be dealt with as soon as possible.
Fire Ants
If a red fire ant has ever stung you, you sure wouldn’t forget it. These dark red ants attack anything that disturbs its nest and they have an excruciating bite that will swell up and turn white. You can mostly find this type of ant all around the United States in outdoor regions or near buildings. It is important to call an exterminator when your yard has fire ants since they can cause so much pain to humans and animals.
Knowing which type of ant has invaded your space can help you find the most effective ant control solution for you.