THE ODOROUS HOUSE ANT
Identification, Prevention & Protection
Description
This ant gets its name from the strong, rotten coconut-like smell it gives off when crushed. These tiny insects range in size from one-sixteenth of an inch to one-eighth of an inch long.
Pest Facts
Color
Brown or black
Legs
Six
Shape
Segmented; oval
Size
1/16-1/8 inch
Antennae
Yes
Flying
Winged swarmers
Region
All 50 states
Habits
Odorous house ants like to eat sweets, especially melon.
Habitat
Typically living for several years, these ants make their homes in exposed soil and wall voids.
Threats
These ants do not pose a public health risk, but they can contaminate food and should be avoided.
Prevention
Eliminate standing water. Pests such as odorous house ants are attracted to moisture. Keep tree branches and other plants cut back from the house. Sometimes pests use these branches to get into your home. Make sure that there are no cracks or little openings around the bottom of your house. Sometimes pests use these to get into your home. Make sure that firewood and building materials are not stored next to your home. Pests like to build nests in stacks of wood.
Why Prevention Is Critical For This Pest
Waiting until you see signs of an infestation means the problem has already taken hold. Preventative pest management targets the conditions that attract pests in the first place — sealing entry points, eliminating food and water sources, and creating ongoing protective barriers around your property.
Our year-round State Shield protection programs are designed to prevent the odorous house ant and other common pests from establishing themselves in your home or business. Regular scheduled treatments and proactive monitoring mean you're always protected — not just reacting after the damage is done.
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