Odorous house ants are tiny troublemakers, measuring just 1/16 to 1/8 inch long. They range from dark brown to black and have a slightly uneven thorax when viewed from the side.
These ants get their name from the foul, rotten coconut or pungent odor they release when crushed. This smell is a defense mechanism that helps deter predators.
These little scavengers have a serious sweet tooth. They love honeydew (a sugary substance made by aphids), spilled juice, and crumbs left behind on counters. When sweets aren’t available, they’ll go for protein or greasy foods, making your kitchen their favorite buffet.
Odorous house ants are adaptable and not picky about where they establish nests. Outside, they nest under logs, mulch, stones, and decaying wood. Inside, they slip into wall voids, beneath floors, and anywhere with moisture—think under sinks and around leaky pipes.
Odorous house ants do not pose a direct threat to humans as they do not sting or cause structural damage. However, they can contaminate food sources and become a persistent nuisance in homes.
These ants are pros at sneaking inside. They find their way through tiny cracks in foundations, gaps around windows and doors, and even openings near utility lines. If tree branches touch your house, they’ll use them as a bridge straight into your home
These ants have large colonies and follow strong pheromone trails to food sources. If a colony establishes a foraging path inside a home, it can lead to an influx of ants appearing seemingly overnight. Changes in weather, such as heavy rains or drought, can also drive them indoors.
Are you seeing ants in your home? Call Four Seasons Pest Control for assistance. Our locally owned and operated pest control company offers home pest control services and solutions for businesses that eradicate existing infestations and prevent new ones from developing.
Very nice and professional. Always happy with Four Seasons; their staff and technicians are always a pleasure. Thank you Josh and Four Seasons for your excellent service.
Christopher W.
Ringgold, VA
I have been a Four Seasons customer from the beginning. All of the service workers have been great over the years. Josh is friendly and answers my questions. I am pleased with his competence to rid my home of pests. Thank you, Josh!
Faye P.
Greensboro, NC
Four Seasons is an excellent company. They respond quickly to whatever your needs are and are willing to do anything necessary to handle your service requests. They have top notch people in the office and the field. I recommend Four Seasons highly.
John D.
Danville, VA
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