Odorous House Ant

Small, about 1/8 inch long, with a uniform brown to black color. They have a single node between the thorax and abdomen that is hidden by the abdomen. They have 12-segmented antennae without a club. Workers are all the same size.

Highly adaptable and form supercolonies with many queens and nesting sites. They move their nests frequently and can nest both indoors and outdoors. They forage along trails and are attracted to sweets, especially honeydew from aphids. When crushed, they emit a rotten coconut odor.

Under rocks, boards, mulch, and in wall voids, especially near moisture sources. They nest in a wide variety of locations and can quickly relocate. They prefer areas with high humidity and access to food.

Visible ant trails along walls, baseboards, and countertops. Workers clustering around food sources, especially sweets. A rotten coconut smell when ants are crushed. Indoor activity near sinks, bathrooms, and windows.

Low medical risk, but they can contaminate food. They tend aphids and scale insects, which can damage plants and trees in your yard.

Eliminate standing water and moisture sources. Trim vegetation away from the home. Seal cracks and crevices. Store food in sealed containers. Clean surfaces regularly. Remove aphid-prone plants near the home. Use sealed containers for sugar and honey.