What Do Ants Look Like?
Ants are small, social insects that vary in size and color depending on the species. Most ants have three distinct body segments: the head, thorax, and abdomen, along with bent antennae and six legs. In Lexington, KY, the most common ants homeowners encounter include Odorous House Ants, Carpenter Ants, Acrobat Ants, and Pavement Ants.
What Types of Ants Are in Lexington, KY?
1. Odorous House Ants (Tapinoma sessile)
Identification:
- Size: 1/16 to 1/8 inch long
- Color: Dark brown to black
- Key Feature: Emits a strong, rotten coconut-like odor when crushed
Behavior & Habitat:
Odorous house ants in Lexington invade our homes in search of food, particularly sweets. They prefer to nest in moist areas such as under sinks, wall voids, or beneath flooring. These ants are notorious for forming large colonies, making infestations difficult to control.
How to Get Rid of Odorous House Ants:
- Keep surfaces clean and free of food crumbs
- Seal cracks and entry points around doors and windows
- Remove standing water and fix leaks
2. Carpenter Ants (Camponotus pennsylvanicus)
Identification:
- Size: 1/4 to 1/2 inch long
- Color: Black or dark reddish-black
- Key Feature: Large mandibles capable of damaging wood
Behavior & Habitat:
There are several types of Carpenter Ants in Lexington, but the most common we deal with are the Black Carpenter Ant. Black Carpenter Ants are among the largest and are wood-destroying pests that tunnel through damp or decaying wood. Unlike termites, they do not eat wood but instead create hollowed-out galleries for nesting. They are commonly found in attics, wall voids, and old wooden structures.
Signs of a Carpenter Ant Infestation:
- Sawdust-like frass near baseboards or wooden furniture
- Rustling sounds inside walls
- Large winged ants appearing indoors
How to Get Rid of Carpenter Ants:
- Remove moisture-damaged wood from the home
- Trim branches away from the house to prevent easy access
- Schedule a professional inspection to locate and treat nests
3. Acrobat Ants (Crematogaster spp.)
Identification:
- Size: 1/8 inch long
- Color: Light brown to black
- Key Feature: Heart-shaped abdomen that can be raised over the body
Behavior & Habitat:
Acrobat ants nest in wood but prefer to inhabit voids created by other insects, such as abandoned termite tunnels. They are highly aggressive when disturbed and will lift their abdomen in a defensive posture. They often enter homes through cracks, electrical wiring, or plumbing. In Lexington, we often see Acrobat Ants trailing along the sides of homes & trailing into attics or along fences.
How to Get Rid of Acrobat Ants:
- Seal off entry points around windows, vents, and electrical lines
- Eliminate moisture buildup around the home
- Address any pre-existing termite damage that may be attracting them
4. Pavement Ants (Tetramorium caespitum)
Identification:
- Size: 1/8 inch long
- Color: Dark brown to black
- Key Feature: Parallel ridges on their head and thorax
Behavior & Habitat:
Pavement ants typically nest in cracks of sidewalks, driveways, and foundations. They forage in large numbers and are particularly attracted to grease, proteins, and sugary foods inside homes. These ants are slow-moving and form distinct foraging trails.
How to Get Rid of Pavement Ants:
- Store food in airtight containers to eliminate food sources
- Apply perimeter treatments to deter entry
- Maintain a clean and dry kitchen
FAQ: Common Questions About Ants in Lexington, KY
Q: Why do I keep seeing ants in my home?
A: Ants invade homes in search of food, water, and shelter. Small openings around windows, doors, and foundation cracks provide easy access.
Q: Are ants dangerous?
A: While most ants are nuisance pests, Carpenter ants can cause structural damage, and some species can contaminate food. Fortunately, Red Imported Fire Ants (a common stinging ant known in the deep south for large mounds & a painful sting) are not currently in Kentucky.
Q: Can DIY treatments get rid of ants permanently?
A: Over-the-counter sprays may kill visible ants but rarely eliminate the entire colony. Professional treatment ensures long-term control.
How Do I Get Rid of Ants in Lexington, KY?
While DIY methods such as baits can help manage minor infestations, professional treatment is the best way to eliminate ants at the source. At Berner Pest Solutions, we specialize in Top Dog Pest Prevention Service, offering quarterly treatments to keep ants and other pests out of your home year-round.
➡ Think you might have an ant problem? Drop us a line & we’ll reach out to schedule your free inspection today!