Pavement Ants

What do pavement ants look like?

Pavement ants are small ants, measuring about 1/8 inch long. They are typically dark brown to black and have segmented bodies with pinched waists. Their thorax has faint grooves or ridges, giving it a lined appearance. Pavement ants also have elbowed, or bent,  antennae and a pair of spines at the rear of their thorax. These ants are slow-moving and often seen trailing in large numbers.

What do pavement ants eat?

Like other ant species, pavement ants have a broad diet. They are attracted to sweet substances like syrup, honey, and sugary spills on the kitchen floor. They also enjoy protein-rich food sources such as dead insects, pet food, and meat. 

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Are pavement ants harmful?

Pavement ants are not considered dangerous to humans or pets. They don’t sting; while they can bite if provoked, their bites are mild and harmless. However, they can contaminate food and surfaces as they forage, making them a nuisance in homes. 

Their nesting activity can also displace soil, which may cause minor structural issues around pavement or patios.

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Where do pavement ants nest? 

Pavement ants commonly nest under sidewalks, driveways, patios, and building foundations, where they dig extensive tunnel systems. They also nest in soil near pavement edges or under stones and bricks. 

Indoors, they may nest in wall voids, beneath floors, or around baseboards, especially during cooler months when they move indoors for warmth. 

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How do pavement ants get into homes?

Pavement ants enter homes through tiny cracks in foundations, gaps around doors and windows, or utility lines. Once inside, they search for food and water, making kitchens and bathrooms typical hotspots. Their small size allows them to access nearly any part of a home easily.

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How can I tell if I have a pavement ant infestation? 

Signs of pavement ants include:

• Trails of ants indoors, often in kitchens, bathrooms, or along baseboards.
• Small piles of displaced soil near pavement cracks, sidewalks, or driveways indicate a nest.
• Ants foraging for food in large numbers, especially around sugary or greasy items.
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How do I get rid of pavement ants?

If you notice pavement ants in your home or yard, contact Acre Pest Control for assistance. Our locally owned and operated pest control company offers home pest control services in Hoover, Mountain Brook, and across the Birmingham Metro that eliminate and prevent ant infestations!

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How can I prevent pavement ant infestations?

To prevent pavement ants, our team of pest control specialists recommends:

• Sealing cracks and gaps in your home’s foundation, windows, and doors. 
• Keeping food stored in airtight containers
• Clean up spills promptly indoors and in outdoor living spaces
• Taking out the trash regularly
• Ensuring landscaping is well-maintained
• Removing debris like stones or wood that could serve as nesting sites.

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