What Are Pharaoh Ants?

Pharaoh ants (Monomorium pharaonis) are a small, invasive species known for their persistent and difficult-to-manage colonies. Here’s what you need to know about them:

Physical Characteristics

• Size: Pharaoh ants are very small, measuring between 1/16 and 1/12 inch (1.5-3 mm) in length. Their tiny size allows them to invade homes through the smallest of cracks and crevices.
• Color: They are typically a yellow to light brown color, often with a slightly translucent appearance.
• Body Structure: Pharaoh ants have a smooth, shiny appearance with a single node (a small segment) between their thorax and abdomen. Their antennae have 12 segments, with a distinct club at the end.

Behavior and Habits

• Nesting Sites: Pharaoh ants prefer warm, moist environments. They are often found nesting in wall voids, under floors, around heating systems, and in other hidden areas. They can also nest in decaying organic matter.
• Foraging Behavior: These ants are attracted to a wide range of food sources, including sugary substances, proteins, and grease. Their foraging trails can lead them to various parts of your home or business.
• Colony Structure: Pharaoh ant colonies can be very large and complex, consisting of thousands of ants. They are known for their ability to form multiple satellite colonies, which makes them particularly difficult to eradicate. The colony structure includes a single queen, numerous workers, and reproductive males and females.
• Reproduction: Pharaoh ants reproduce rapidly, with multiple queens in a single colony capable of laying thousands of eggs. This high reproductive rate contributes to their ability to spread quickly and form new colonies.

Signs of Infestation

• Visible Trails: You may see small trails of ants moving in and out of your property, especially near food sources or along baseboards and walls.
• Nesting Evidence: Look for nests in hidden or damp areas, such as inside wall voids, under floors, or around heating ducts.
• Increased Activity: A noticeable increase in ant activity, particularly around food storage areas, is a common sign of an infestation.