Sugar ants are a common household pest and they are often found invading homes, schools, restaurants and other commercial properties. They are named “sugar” ants due to their interest in sugar and other sweet foods, however they do not solely feed on sugar and can also be attracted to corn, honey, jams, jellies, soft drinks, fruit and even the nectar secreted by aphids which are commonly found on houseplants.
They are most likely to invade your home during the spring and summer months and can be particularly problematic in areas that store food like kitchens. They can enter the home through small cracks, crevices, and openings around doors and windows. They are attracted to sweet substances and will quickly overtake any area that contains them including your pantry.
Getting rid of Sugar Ants is easier if you understand what attracts them to your property and what steps you can take to deter them. Using the correct ant control products and following the tips in this article will help you to prevent them from entering your home and eliminate any current infestations.
The term sugar ant actually refers to several different ant species that can be found in the United States and many of them have been known to invade homes. The most common are the black or dark brown pavement ants (Antsiphone fimbriatus) and the yellow-colored sugar ant (Antsiphone bufo). The latter is usually referred to as just a sugar ant and is typically only found in homes.
Both of these ant species are polymorphic meaning that they have multiple forms of bodies and heads so they can adapt to the environment they are in. This helps them to survive and thrive in a variety of environments and conditions.
These ants are primarily nocturnal and have a mesic habitat. They are usually found in forests and woodlands but are also common in urban areas where they are considered a nuisance pest. They are a competitor of the meat ant (Iridomyrmex purpureus) and have been known to engage in robbery and nest-plugging with this species. Banded sugar ants are also preyed upon by birds, echidnas and other ant species.
The easiest way to prevent sugar ants is to keep them from getting inside your home in the first place. This can be done by reducing the crumbs and other food sources that they can access outside your home. Make sure that all entry points into your home are sealed well and that door sweeps and window screens are fitted properly and undamaged.
Other prevention measures include avoiding placing any food outside your home in open containers. Instead, store food in sealed glass jars. This will not only keep food fresh but will also prevent ants from gaining access to it.
If you do notice a sugar ant problem in your home, it is important to contact a professional pest control company as soon as possible. They can identify the ant species in your home and offer specific recommendations for treatment and removal.
