Types of Ants in Illinois

Types of Ants in Illinois

Illinois is home to many ant species, but only a handful are common household pests. Identifying which type of ant you are dealing with is important because different species require different control strategies. Here are the most common ants found in Central Illinois homes.

Odorous House Ants

Odorous house ants are small, dark brown to black ants about 1/8 inch long. They get their name from the rotten coconut-like smell they produce when crushed. These ants form large colonies and send long trails of foragers into homes in search of sugary and greasy foods. They nest in wall voids, under floors, and in insulation.

Pavement Ants

Pavement ants are small, brown to black ants commonly found nesting under sidewalks, driveways, and foundations. They often push small mounds of soil out of cracks in pavement. Pavement ants enter homes through foundation cracks and are attracted to a variety of foods.

Carpenter Ants

Carpenter ants are among the largest ants in Illinois, ranging from 1/4 to 1/2 inch long. They are typically black, though some species are reddish-brown. Unlike termites, carpenter ants do not eat wood but excavate galleries in it for nesting. They are attracted to moist, decaying wood and can cause significant structural damage over time.

Pharaoh Ants

Pharaoh ants are tiny, yellowish-brown ants about 1/16 inch long. They are primarily a problem in heated buildings and can be particularly troublesome in hospitals, nursing homes, and apartment buildings. Pharaoh ants have large colonies with multiple queens, making them difficult to control with conventional sprays.

Acrobat Ants

Acrobat ants are small to medium-sized ants that can be identified by their heart-shaped abdomen, which they raise above their head when disturbed. They often nest in damaged or decaying wood and may enter homes through gaps around utility lines and door frames.

Little Black Ants

As their name suggests, little black ants are very small (about 1/16 inch) and jet black. They form moderate-sized colonies and are commonly found foraging in kitchens and bathrooms. They nest outdoors under rocks and debris but readily enter homes.

Professional Ant Control

No matter which ant species is invading your home, Terminix can help. Our technicians identify the species, locate the colony, and implement targeted treatments for effective, lasting control. Contact us today for a free inspection.