Characteristics

Size: Approximately 1/8-inch long

Color: Brown to black.

Behavior: When the ant is crushed it gives of a pungent odor. Evidence of a large infestation may be that odor. Odorous house ants may develop huge colonies containing thousands of workers and numerous queens. Known to be destructive to wood and insulation in the home. The keys to control are to find the colonies and subcolonies and treat them directly. Regular inspections and service are necessary to find and treat new colonies as they move in from neighboring properties.

Habitat: This species is common in California. These ants nest outdoors under items on the ground, within yard debris, beneath loose bark on trees, under ground cover, in potted plants, and within piles of items, such as lumber, firewood, or bricks. Nests may readily be established inside homes in walls, beneath carpeting, and other suitable voids or spaces.