Identification
Thief ants are one of the smallest ant species, measuring about 1/32 to 1/16 inch in length. They are yellow to light brown in color with a two-segmented petiole and a smooth, shiny body. They have six legs, bent antennae, and lack a noticeable stinger. Their small size allows them to infiltrate food packaging and other tight spaces.
Lifecycle & Reproduction
Thief ants undergo complete metamorphosis: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. Queens lay eggs continuously, leading to rapid colony expansion. Workers emerge within a few weeks and can live for several months, while queens can survive for years. Colonies often contain multiple queens and create satellite nests.
Habits, Diet & Behavior
Thief ants are named for their tendency to steal food from other ant colonies. They primarily feed on greasy foods, proteins, and dead insects. They forage in long trails and can enter homes in search of food, making them persistent indoor pests.
Where You’ll Find Them / Typical Locations
Thief ants nest in a variety of environments, commonly found:
- Inside cracks, wall voids, and under baseboards
- In soil, under rocks, and inside decaying wood
- Near kitchen pantries and food storage areas
- Within electrical outlets and behind appliances
- Around foundations and landscaping materials
Threats & Danger
Thief ants can contaminate food and surfaces, making them a health concern. They are known to carry bacteria that can spread to food sources. Their small size makes them difficult to detect and control, leading to widespread infestations if left unchecked.
Prevention
- Seal cracks and crevices around windows, doors, and foundations
- Store food in airtight containers and keep surfaces clean
- Remove grease and protein-rich residues from kitchen areas
- Trim vegetation away from buildings to reduce nesting sites
- Use ant baits to disrupt colony growth and foraging trails
Signs of Infestation
- Tiny ants trailing along countertops, sinks, and pantries
- Infestation of food packaging and greasy food residues
- Small nests in cracks, wall voids, or under appliances
- Ant activity around baseboards, window frames, and outlets
- Persistent foraging behavior in kitchens and food storage areas
How to Get Rid of It
- Use slow-acting bait stations to target the entire colony
- Apply residual insecticides to entry points and nesting sites
- Clean up spills and food debris to eliminate attractants
- Remove old nests and seal potential entry points
- Seek professional pest control assistance for severe infestations