What are Odorous House Ants?
Odorous house ants, also known as Tapinoma sessile, are small ants that are commonly found in homes throughout the United States. They get their name from the strong, rotten coconut-like odor they emit when crushed. These ants are brown or black in color and are typically about 1/8 inch long.
While they may seem small and harmless, odorous house ants can cause significant damage to a home or building. They are known to forage for food both inside and outside of homes, and they can be found in a variety of environments, including gardens, forests, and urban areas.
What Do Odorous House Ants Do?
Odorous house ants are attracted to sweet substances and will often be found near sources of food in a home. They can infest pantries, kitchens, and other areas where food is stored or prepared. In addition to being a nuisance, these ants can contaminate food and surfaces with their feces and saliva, which can lead to health concerns.
In addition to causing damage to a home, odorous house ants can also damage plants and gardens. They feed on the sugary secretions of plant pests, such as aphids, and can also damage plants by tunneling through roots and stems.
Conditions Odorous House Ants Enjoy
Odorous house ants prefer warm, moist environments and often nest in walls, under floors, or in the soil around foundations. They are particularly fond of wood, and can often be found nesting in woodpiles or in structural wood in a home or building.
In addition to seeking out warm, moist environments, odorous house ants are also attracted to sources of food and water. They will forage for food both inside and outside of homes, and may be found near sources of sweet substances, such as spills and crumbs.
Treating an Odorous House Ant Infestation
If you suspect that you have an odorous house ant infestation, it’s important to take action quickly to prevent further damage and protect your home and family. Here are a few steps you can take to treat an odorous house ant infestation:
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Locate and eliminate the nest:
In order to effectively control an odorous house ant infestation, it’s important to locate and eliminate their nest. This may require the help of a professional pest control technician, as ants can be difficult to track down and eliminate.
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Remove sources of food:
One of the most effective ways to prevent odorous house ants from entering a home is to remove sources of food. This means cleaning up spills and crumbs, storing food in airtight containers, and regularly cleaning surfaces where food is prepared or stored.
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Seal cracks and crevices:
Odorous house ants can enter a home through small cracks and crevices, so it’s important to seal these areas to prevent them from gaining access. This may involve using caulk or other sealing materials to fill in any gaps around windows, doors, pipes, and other areas where ants might enter.
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Use commercial ant bait:
Commercial ant bait products can be effective in controlling an odorous house ant infestation. These products contain a chemical that is attractive to ants, and when ingested, it will kill the ant and help to eliminate the colony.
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Contact a professional pest control company:
If you’re unable to effectively control an odorous house ant infestation on your own, it may be necessary to contact a pest professional like New Day Pest at (360) 506-9603.