Some of the pavement ant’s most distinguishable characteristics are the parallel grooved lines that run along their head and thorax along with a pair of small spines that extend out from the rear end of their thorax.

New pavement ant colonies are formed in the spring when winged pavement ants, or “swarmers,” mate and reproduce.

Outside, pavement ants can be found nesting in the cracks of driveways, under and along sidewalks, under concrete slabs, in ground level masonry walls, and underneath foundations; however, it is not uncommon to find pavement ants nesting inside homes and other buildings. Once inside, they typically create their nests behind walls in insulation and underneath floors.

Like other species, pavement ants feed on honeydew and dead insects. Indoors, they tend to seek out sugary, greasy, or fatty foods.

Although pavement ants have the ability to both sting and bite, they rarely do. Pavement ants are mostly nuisance ants that will invade homes to forage for food, water, and shelter. Foraging pavement ants may contaminate food that is stored within homes and feed on meats, grease, cheese, and nuts among other foods if they find access.

Pavement ants invade homes while searching for food and water sources, and once inside may decide to nest indoors if conditions are favorable.

Pavement ants are very difficult to get rid of on your own; they nest in hard to reach places both inside and outside of the home. It is always safer, faster, and more effective to get help eliminating pavement ants by contacting a professional pest control expert. At Invaders Pest Control, our team offers effective pest control for pavement ants and other house-infesting insects.

Even though pavement ants are dangerous to health or destructive to property, homeowners should discourage these pests. At Pine State Pest Solutions, we recommend implementing the following pavement ant prevention tips:

• Seal cracks that form in sidewalks and/or walkways located on your property and seal cracks that form in your home’s foundation.
• Caulk gaps found around windows and doors; it is also a good idea to install door sweeps on all exterior doors.
• Place outdoor trash cans several feet away from your home and make sure that they are fitted with tight lids and/or locks.
• Trim trees and bushes away from the exterior of your home; especially any that are coming into direct contact with your home.
• Keep kitchen and pantry areas free of crumbs and clean up spills immediately.
• Store food in refrigerators not on counters or tables.
• Do not leave dirty dishes in your sink overnight.