What do acrobat ants look like?
Acrobat ants are light brown to black in color, are 1/8-inch long on average, and have heart-shaped abdomens as well as 11-segment antennae with 3-segmented clubs. Acrobat ants also have a stinger.
When are acrobat ants most active?
Biology of acrobat ants
Like all ants, the acrobat ants may produce winged, reproductive individuals (males and females) called swarmers. These sexually developed adults emerge from an established colony, usually in the fall, to disperse and start new colonies. The swarmers are harmless, but they may be the first indication of an infestation.
Where do acrobat ants nest?
Outdoors, acrobat ants nest under stones, in stumps, in rotting logs, and under woodpiles. When they invade homes, they often nest in wall voids or in foam sheathing behind the siding of homes. Homeowners often find bits of foam around the outside of the home, next to the foundation. The ants also nest in wood that has been damaged by moisture, fungus, carpenter ants, or termites.
What do acrobat ants eat?
Acrobat ants normally eat insects and honeydew. They protect the aphids that produce the honeydew. If acrobat ants come into a home, they seem to prefer sweets and meat.
Are acrobat ants dangerous?
Acrobat ants are capable of biting but typically only do so when threatened. They are not considered a health threat.
It should be noted that acrobat ants may cause damage to homes and other types of structures. One common problem associated with this species is their tendency to strip electrical and/or telephone wires, which can short circuits.
How did I get acrobat ants?
Acrobat ant workers enter homes and structures in several ways. Sometimes they make a trail across the ground. Door thresholds and weep holes are common entryways. Workers can also follow tree limbs or shrubs that touch the house or building. They also take advantage of the structural openings used by utility lines.
How do you get rid of acrobat ants?
Once acrobat ants infest, they can be hard to get rid of without professional help. If you’ve spotted these small ants in or around your structure, contact Greenway Pest. Our local pest control pros have the knowledge, tools, and experience to eliminate acrobat ants that have infested your property.
