Identification
Pharaoh ants are tiny, measuring about 1/16 inch in length. They are light yellow to reddish-brown with darker abdomens. They have six legs, a two-segmented petiole, and 12-segmented antennae with a distinct three-segmented club. Unlike some ant species, pharaoh ants lack a stinger but can bite.
Lifecycle & Reproduction
Pharaoh ants undergo complete metamorphosis, progressing through egg, larva, pupa, and adult stages. Queens can lay hundreds of eggs, which hatch in about a week. Workers live for a few months, while queens can survive up to a year. Colonies contain multiple queens and expand rapidly through budding, where smaller groups split off to form new nests.
Habits, Diet & Behavior
Pharaoh ants are opportunistic feeders, consuming a variety of foods, including sweets, proteins, and greasy substances. They are known for infesting hospitals, contaminating medical equipment and supplies. Unlike other ants, they establish nests in hidden, undisturbed areas and can relocate quickly when disturbed.
Where You’ll Find Them / Typical Locations
Pharaoh ants nest in warm, humid environments, commonly found:
- Inside walls, baseboards, and electrical outlets
- Near sinks, plumbing, and kitchens
- In hospitals, contaminating sterile environments
- Inside cabinets, pantries, and food storage areas
- Within insulation, cardboard boxes, and furniture
Threats & Danger
Pharaoh ants are a major public health concern due to their ability to spread bacteria and pathogens. They contaminate food, medical supplies, and sterile environments. Their ability to form multiple satellite colonies makes eradication difficult.
Prevention
- Seal cracks, gaps, and entry points around buildings
- Keep food stored in airtight containers and clean up crumbs
- Address moisture issues by fixing leaks and improving ventilation
- Regularly sanitize food preparation areas to remove attractants
- Use baiting strategies to target hidden colonies effectively
Signs of Infestation
- Small, yellowish ants trailing in kitchens, pantries, and bathrooms
- Presence of ants inside electrical outlets and wall voids
- Increased activity around food and water sources
- Nests hidden in warm, undisturbed areas
- Difficulty eliminating infestations due to colony budding
How to Get Rid of It
- Use slow-acting bait stations to ensure colony-wide eradication
- Avoid using repellent sprays that can cause colonies to bud
- Maintain cleanliness and eliminate access to food and water
- Implement professional pest control services for severe infestations
- Monitor bait placements and reapply as needed for long-term control