The Different Types Of Ants In Florida


December 15, 2017

Florida is home to many different species of ants. Some are more destructive than others, and some pose a significant health threat to humans while others are harmless, yet annoying and unsightly. If you have ants in your home, an experienced ant pest control professional can identify the species present and create a customized extermination plan for them. Do not live among ants any longer – you deserve to live in a clean, pest-free environment.

Below are four of the many types of ant that call Florida their home. Once you determine the species in your home, you can work with a pest control professional to identify where the infestation started, where the ants are currently nesting, and how to avoid attracting ants in the future.

Red Imported Fire Ants

Red imported fire ants, often known simply as fire ants, are red in color. They measure 1.6 to 5 millimeters long.

Their name comes from the fact that the ants are not native to North America. They were first imported to the United States in the 1930s and today can be found throughout the southern United States. They nest outdoors and display an aggressive demeanor. A fire ant will sting a human or animal much larger than itself, and these stings can be fatal. The most common sign of a fire ant infestation is the presence of worker ants.

Thief Ants

Thief ants are one of the smallest ant species, measuring only 1.5 to 2.2 millimeters long. They are yellow to brown in color.

Thief ants consume proteins like nuts, cheese, and meat. When they are in the home, they can transmit pathogens to humans. The presence of a worker thief ant is generally a sign of an infestation.

Ghost Ants

Ghost ants measure 1.3 to 1.5 millimeters long. They have pale legs and abdomens that contrast with their dark heads and thoraxes. The most common sign of a ghost ant infestation is the presence of one or more ghost ants in a home or outside. They do not sting and generally do not bite, and when they do bite, the worst a victim can experience is some discomfort.

Carpenter Ants

Carpenter ants live in moist, decaying wood. When they are in your home, they can threaten the home’s structural integrity, potentially costing you tens of thousands of dollars in repairs.

Carpenter ants measure 3.4 to 13 millimeters. They can be brown, black, or red and black in color. They make their nests close to moisture and food sources, often in voids in walls. Signs of an infestation include a faint rustling noise in the wall and piles of wood shavings.

Ants In The House? Work With An Experienced Wellington Exterminator

Getting rid of ants yourself can be expensive, time-consuming, and at times, feel futile. Get the job done safely and efficiently by working with an experienced Wellington pest control company. Contact Empire Pest Defense today to set up your initial consultation with us, during which we will examine your infestation and create a customized pest control plan that to help you take back your home from the ants.

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