Identification
Pavement ants are small, measuring about 1/8 inch in length. They are dark brown to black with parallel ridges on their head and thorax. They have six legs, a two-segmented petiole, and a stinger, though they rarely use it. Their antennae have 12 segments with a distinct three-segmented club.
Lifecycle & Reproduction
Pavement ants undergo complete metamorphosis, progressing through egg, larva, pupa, and adult stages. Queens lay eggs that hatch in about two weeks. Worker ants live for several months, while queens can survive for years. Colonies can contain thousands of ants and often expand rapidly.
Habits, Diet & Behavior
Pavement ants are opportunistic foragers and feed on a variety of foods, including sugary substances, proteins, grease, and dead insects. They are known for their aggressive battles with neighboring colonies. Pavement ants forage in visible trails and are active mostly at night.
Where You’ll Find Them / Typical Locations
Pavement ants nest in soil and build colonies near or under:
- Sidewalks, driveways, and foundations
- Cracks in concrete and asphalt
- Under stones, logs, and bricks
- Kitchens and pantries when searching for food
- Basements and crawl spaces
Threats & Danger
While pavement ants do not pose significant health risks, they can contaminate food and surfaces. They occasionally bite when provoked and can become a nuisance due to their persistent foraging behavior. Their nests may weaken pavement and structures over time.
Prevention
- Seal cracks and entry points around foundations and walls
- Store food in sealed containers and clean up crumbs
- Trim vegetation away from structures to reduce nesting opportunities
- Remove debris, stones, and wood piles near buildings
- Use bait stations to control colonies and disrupt foraging trails
Signs of Infestation
- Small, dark ants trailing along sidewalks, foundations, and walls
- Piles of displaced soil or sand near pavement cracks
- Ants gathering around sugary spills and protein-rich foods
- Nesting activity near concrete slabs, patios, and driveways
- Visible ant battles between competing colonies
How to Get Rid of It
- Use slow-acting bait stations to eliminate entire colonies
- Apply perimeter insecticides to entry points and nesting sites
- Remove food sources and maintain cleanliness indoors
- Seal foundation cracks to prevent access
- Contact professional pest control for widespread infestations