Ants are fascinating creatures that play crucial roles in our ecosystem. However, when they invade homes and gardens, they can become a nuisance. If you live in Westchester, New York, it’s helpful to know which ant species you might encounter. Here’s a guide to some of the most common ants in the area.

1. Carpenter Ants (Camponotus spp.)

Identification

• Size: 1/4 to 1/2 inch long
• Color: Black or dark brown
• Distinguishing Features: Smooth, rounded thorax; workers have large mandibles

Habits

Carpenter ants are known for their wood-destroying habits. Unlike termites, they don’t eat wood but excavate it to build their nests. They prefer moist, decaying wood and are commonly found in wooden structures, including homes.

Control

• Prevention: Seal cracks and crevices, remove decaying wood, and ensure proper ventilation to reduce moisture.
• Treatment: Use bait traps and insecticidal sprays targeted at carpenter ants.

2. Pavement Ants (Tetramorium caespitum)

Identification

• Size: 1/8 inch long
• Color: Brown to black
• Distinguishing Features: Parallel lines on the head and thorax; two-segmented pedicel

Habits

Pavement ants typically build their nests in cracks in pavement, hence their name. They are also known to invade homes, especially during winter, in search of food.

Control

• Prevention: Keep food sealed and clean up spills promptly. Seal entry points around windows and doors.
• Treatment: Bait traps and insecticidal dust can be effective in controlling pavement ants.

3. Odorous House Ants (Tapinoma sessile)

Identification

• Size: 1/16 to 1/8 inch long
• Color: Dark brown to black
• Distinguishing Features: Emit a rotten coconut smell when crushed

Habits

Odorous house ants are attracted to sweets and are often found indoors searching for food. They nest in various locations, including wall voids and under floors.

Control

• Prevention: Store food in airtight containers and keep surfaces clean.
• Treatment: Use sweet bait traps to attract and eliminate these ants.

4. Pharaoh Ants (Monomorium pharaonis)

Identification

• Size: 1/16 inch long
• **Color

Common Ants in Westchester NY

Ants are an everyday sight in Westchester, NY. While most of them are harmless, some can become a nuisance if they invade homes or gardens. Knowing the common species helps in identifying them and understanding their behavior. Here’s a guide to some of the most prevalent ant species in Westchester.

1. Pavement Ants

Characteristics:

• Appearance: Small, dark brown to black ants.
• Behavior: Often seen on sidewalks, driveways, and building foundations.
• Nesting: They build nests under pavements, stones, and logs but may also invade homes.
• Diet: Omnivorous, feeding on sweets, grease, and other insects.

2. Odorous House Ants

Characteristics:

• Appearance: Small, brown to black ants that emit a rotten coconut smell when crushed.
• Behavior: Tend to invade homes, particularly kitchens and bathrooms.
• Nesting: Prefer moist areas like under rocks, logs, and inside wall voids.
• Diet: Fond of sugary foods but will also consume meats and dairy products.

3. Carpenter Ants

Characteristics:

• Appearance: Larger ants, typically black or dark brown.
• Behavior: Known for nesting in wood, which can cause structural damage to homes.
• Nesting: Prefer decayed or moisture-damaged wood but can also nest inside homes.
• Diet: Feed on protein and sugar sources, including honeydew from aphids.

4. Pharaoh Ants

Characteristics:

• Appearance: Small, yellow to light brown ants with a darker abdomen.
• Behavior: Infamous for being difficult to control once they infest buildings.
• Nesting: Usually found in warm, humid areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and heating systems.
• Diet: Prefer sweets but will eat a variety of foods, including fats and proteins.

5. Citronella Ants

Characteristics:

• Appearance: Yellow to light brown ants with a strong lemony scent when crushed.
• Behavior: Rarely enter homes; more common in gardens and lawns.
• Nesting: They build nests in soil, particularly under logs and stones.
• Diet: Primarily feed on honeydew produced by aphids and other insects.

Understanding the different types of ants in Westchester can help you manage and control potential infestations more effectively. If you encounter persistent ant problems, seeking professional pest control advice is always advisable. Identifying the species correctly is the first step in implementing targeted treatments.

For further assistance or to schedule an inspection, don’t hesitate to contact your local pest control expert. Protect your home and garden by staying informed about these common ant species.