Big-headed ants are reddish-brown and measure between 1/16 and 1/8 of an inch long. They have two nodes between their thorax and abdomen, with the posterior node larger. You'll notice that the worker ants come in two distinct sizes: major workers (soldiers) with large heads and minor workers, which are smaller with proportionately sized heads. Major workers have elbowed antennae, while minor workers have curved antennae.
Big-headed ants are highly adaptable and can create nests both indoors and outdoors. Here’s where you might find them:
You may track their nesting activity by observing their daytime activity.
Yes, big-headed ants can be troublesome in several ways:
These ants have a varied diet, feeding on plant and animal matter. They can eat:
While limiting food sources can help, it’s not a complete solution. Professional treatment is necessary to eliminate them effectively.
The main issue with big-headed ants is their numbers. When they invade homes, they crawl over everything, which can be incredibly unsettling. Additionally, their ability to spread germs poses a secondary risk, as they can transfer harmful bacteria to surfaces, dishes, and food.
Big-headed ants are drawn to food, moisture, and shelter:
Combining these steps with a pest control plan will help ensure that big-headed ants don’t get a foothold in your home.
Tracking big-headed ants is easy since they’re active during the day. Here's how to find their nests:
If you see big-headed ants inside your home or structure, it’s time to call in a professional. DIY treatments can sometimes worsen infestations, causing ants to split into new colonies or develop bait aversion. At Four Seasons Pest Control, our locally owned and operated pest control company offers effective pest control services for homes and businesses in Danville and Virginia’s Southside, as well as North Carolina’s Piedmont Triad area. Contact us today to learn how we can help you eliminate and prevent big-headed ant infestations!
Preventing an infestation starts with creating an environment less inviting to big-headed ants. Here are a few steps to take:
Combining these prevention steps with a professional pest control plan can significantly reduce the chances of a big-headed ant invasion.
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