Pest Identification And Information

Pharaoh Ants (Monomorium Pharaonis)

Very small yellowish ant, about 1/16 of an inch long. They have 2 nodes (humps). The workers are all one size. Originally from Africa, these ants are rarely found outside; therefore they are closely associated with heated buildings.  They are commonly found in apartments and hospitals. The colonies can get very large with populations of up to 300,000.

BIOLOGY

• At 80°F, the egg to adult cycle takes about 38 days.  Workers live about 9 -10 weeks, queens will live 4 -12 months.
• They will eat both carbohydrates (for maintenance) and proteins (for larval development and egg production by the queens).

HABITS

• The colony will produce winged ants (called reproductives), but do not swarm, as other ant types do.  Instead, they mate within the nest.
• They make new colonies by a process called  “budding.”  This is done when the colony is getting too large, or when it is under stress, such as when repellent insecticides are sprayed in an effort to control them.
• They do not construct their own nest, excavate wood or build mounds.
• They will nest in any dark void areas, cabinet voids, behind baseboards, window/door molding, inside hollow curtain or shower rods, expansion joints and in slab foundations, they have been found in the folds of sheets and clothing, and in folded paper sacks and newspapers.
• They eat a wide variety of foods; syrups, fruits, meats, dead insects, etc.
• Only about 5% of the colony will forage for food at any given time, after feeding they return to the colony and will feed about 10 other ants, by way of regurgitation.
• Workers will forage for food on set trails along baseboards, corners, ceilings and under the edge of carpets.
• They can be a particular concern in hospitals, nursing homes etc., where they have been known to enter wounds, bandages, IV bottles, infants mouths, etc. while foraging for suitable “food”.

TREATMENT 

• The use of repellent pesticides (liquids, dusts) may actually make the problem worse by fracturing or making the colony “bud” into new locations. Initially, it seems as if the problem is solved, as you will see no ant activity. After the 7-10 days needed for the colony to reorganize itself, you will again see foraging ants. This cycle can be repeated many times.
• A thorough inspection is crucial to determine ant locations. Look primarily near moisture areas; potted plants, sinks, kitchen/bathroom areas, window/door frames/sills. Also look in food areas, pet food dishes etc.
• Baiting is the most effective method of control.
• Place baits as close as practical to where the ants are entering/exiting from the wall, ceiling, appliance etc.
• Place bait stations so that the likelihood of disturbing them is minimal.
• Place bait in corners or along edges of items, Pharaoh ants tend to trail along edges, baits placed out in the open or in the middle of cabinets are not very effective.
• Do not contaminate bait stations with your “human” scent. Keep in plastic bags until use. Do not have insecticide, cologne, oil or even soap residue from freshly washed hands on your hands while handling the bait stations.

FAQ’s:

“Why is bait that we bought not working?”

Patience is a virtue when using baits. Baits can take up to 5 weeks before you will notice a reduction of ants. Perhaps not enough bait was used (try 10-12 per apartment, more for a house, depending on size).  Was the bait contaminated?  Have you sprayed insecticide, temporarily driving the ants away?