Because individual colonies of Argentine ants do not behave aggressively with one another, these colonies often forge bonds that result in “super-colonies" spanning a larger area. They are an invasive species in the U.S., and their colonies can grow quite large. Originating in Argentina, Argentine ants found their way to southern California and the Gulf Coast States by hitching a ride on ships. They can be found as far north as Tennessee and North Carolina however. However, in some instances, fire ants can cause an allergic reaction that requires immediate medical attention, according to the Mayo Clinic.įire ants usually live in the southern states, especially in the southeastern Gulf Coast states. You'll end up with burning, itchy red bumps that disappear within a few days. If you happen to get too close to their nests, they may attack, biting you and holding on, while injecting you with venom from their stinger. Fire Antsįire ants are named for their fiery red color and painful sting. Little black ants tend to nest in piles of lumber, rocks, and other debris. Like most species of ants, they will eat nearly anything, but are partial to sweet substances. Little black ants are found all over the U.S., and are small, shiny and black, measuring roughly one-eighth of an inch long. They simply tunnel through it to create their nests.Ĭarpenter ants are found in the eastern United States, and are usually black or brown in color. However, they do not feed on wood like termites do. They can cause damage in the walls of your home and can sometimes be mistaken for termites. Carpenter AntsĬarpenter ants are named for their tendency to tunnel and nest in wood. Here are some of the most common types of ants and how to identify them. If you think you might have an ant infestation in your home, it's important to understand what type of ants you might be dealing with in order to formulate a plan to get rid of them. There are many different species of ants that call the United States home. What different types of ants live in the U.S.? Ants can also live in or around the foundation of your home, or in the walls of your home.Īnts prefer to build their nests near sources of food, water and protection from predators and the elements. When building nests outdoors, you may notice small piles of dirt or sand at the entrance. Most species of ants build large nests with intricate networks of tunnels.Īnts can create their nests both indoors and out. The queen's role is to lay eggs to keep the colony thriving.Īnts can live in nearly any climate, which makes them one of the most common insects throughout the world. Male ants, on the other hand, have one job - to mate with the queen ant and produce more offspring. They collect food, build nests and care for the larvae. They are social creatures that live in colonies that can contain hundreds of thousands of individuals.Įach ant has an important job within the colony. Ant BehaviorĪnts are common household pests because they like to build their nests near food and water sources, and humans tend to unknowingly provide plenty of food for ants. While most species of ants pose no threat to humans, they can be quite annoying if they invade your home. Their legs and antennae are long compared to their bodies.Īnts can be black, brown or reddish, and range in size from 1/16 of an inch to 1/2 inch. In addition, all ants have six legs and bent antennae. They have bodies with three sections: a head, an abdomen and a thorax. While there are many different species of ants, all ants have a few defining characteristics. Understanding AntsĪnts are common insects that can be found in most parts of the world. However, the first step in preventing ants and getting rid of them is learning more about these pests and the proper steps to control them. While it may be fun to hear about ants marching one by one in nursery rhymes, the actual sight of ants parading through your home can be troubling.
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