Pharaoh Ants

What Are Pharaoh Ants?

There are more than 250 species of ants in Texas, each with unique habits, habitats, and food choices. The pharaoh ant is a common species of ant living in Dallas, TX. These ants are tiny with adults only growing to between 1/12" and 1/16" long. Their bodies range from yellow to light brown, and are almost transparent; some may have red or black markings on their abdomen. Pharaoh ant colonies are vast, and their ability to bud (members of the colony moving to new nesting locations when the colony is disturbed) makes these ants one of the most difficult to control.

Pharaoh Ant Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are pharaoh ants dangerous?

Most species of ants you come across are nuisance ants; however, the pharaoh ant is an example of a dangerous ant species. Pharaoh ants are dangerous because of their ability to spread disease pathogens that can make people quite ill such as salmonella and streptococcus. These ants are a major concern and problem in hospitals because, along with spreading disease, they seek out the moisture from patients’ eyes, mouths, and wounds. They also get into and contaminate IV bags.

Why do I have a pharaoh ant problem?

Pharaoh ants like to create indoor nests, and their huge colonies often become a problem inside homes, hospitals, hotels, grocery stores, warehouses, and other places where there is food storage. Pharaoh ants prefer living inside because our homes and businesses provide them with artificial sources of heat and cool air so they can live comfortably and remain active throughout the year. Indoor nesting locations also usually offer easy access to their favorite foods—oils, proteins, and sugars.

Where will I find pharaoh ants?

Pharaoh ants can live outdoors year-round in the Southern states but are commonly found indoors—both in the northern and southern portions of the country. Outside, pharaoh ants nest in damp, shaded spots like under leaves, fallen trees, mulch, and landscaping ties. Inside, they like to nest in warm, humid areas near their food sources, such as behind baseboards and wall voids, under floors, and in crawlspaces.

How do I get rid of pharaoh ants?

Locally owned and family-operated, All-Safe Pest & Termite is the best choice to get rid of pharaoh ants from your home or business. We offer fast response times and peace of mind knowing that your pest problems will be solved, and they won’t return. Our experienced pest professionals provide top-quality pest control services using the latest and most effective products to eliminate pharaoh ants from Dallas properties. Discover why your neighbors choose All-Safe Pest & Termite for their pest control needs. Give us a call today!

How can I prevent pharaoh ants in the future?

Prevent problems with pharaoh ants by partnering with All-Safe Pest & Termite and by implementing the following prevention tips:

• Get rid of entry points by sealing cracks in the foundation, exterior walls, and roofline.
• Place door sweeps on all exterior doors.
• Place mesh covers over vents leading into your home.
• Seal the spaces around air conditioners and utilities that enter your home.
• Leave a 12-18 inch barrier of crushed rock or stone between any mulch or soil and your foundation.
• Clean up piles of wood, leaves, and other organic debris from your yard.
• Store trash cans and compost bins up off of the ground and make sure they have tight-fitting lids.
• Use dehumidifiers to keep your home dry and free of excess moisture.