Pest Library
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All it takes is one pest sighting to ruin the reputation you’ve worked so hard to build.
Pavement Ant
Tetramorium caespitum
The soil near slabs and sidewalks is an attractive nesting spot for pavement ants, which often head inside when foraging for food. Marked by the grooves in their head and thorax, these pests occasionally leave dirt trails behind as they carry soil into your building or foundation's walls to build nests. Perimeter inspection is essential to controlling problems effectively.
RISK LEVEL:
LOW
MEDIUM
HIGH
Risk is defined as how much damage each pest can be to you, your family, or your home
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| Class: | Order: | Family: | |
| Insecta | Hymenoptera | Formicidae | |
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| Size: | 1/10-1/8 inch (2-3mm) |
| Color: | Brown to Black in color |
| Characteristics: | Two spines on the back, two nodes on the petiole, and grooves on the head and thorax. Pale legs and a black abdomen. Can contaminate foods. |
| Geographic Range: | Found in all areas of the U.S. Most common/thrive in the eastern U.S., parts of California, and the Mid-West |
| Food: | Feed on live and dead insects, honeydew from aphids, meats, grease, household foods, seeds, bread, etc. |
| Biology: | During the early spring, pavement ants attack nearby enemy colonies in attempt to conquer new areas. Often invade and colonize seemingly impenetrable areas, due to their aggressive nature. Also, they become numerous in short periods of times when around a kitchen or outside on a patio when entering households looking for food. |
- Nests often difficult to locate
- Dig out sand in pavement to vent the nests
- Located under sidewalks, building slabs, and large rocks
- Common to see sand piles and small soil particles in these structures.