4 Common Types You Might Find in (or Around) Your Home
Ants are a common pest problem across Colorado Springs—especially in the warmer months. While they may all look similar at first glance, different species behave very differently. And, some can cause more serious issues than others. Understanding which ants you’re dealing with is the first step to kicking them out for good. Here are four types of ants commonly found in Colorado, and what you need to know about each one.
1. Carpenter Ants
Carpenter ants are one of the most destructive ant species in Colorado. Unlike termites, they don’t eat wood. But, they do chew through it to build nests, which can lead to serious structural damage over time. These ants are usually black or reddish-black and much larger than other species (up to ½ inch long). You’re most likely to find them around moist or decaying wood, including decks, window frames, and crawl spaces.
Warning signs: Rustling sounds in walls, small piles of sawdust, or winged ants indoors (especially near springtime).
2. Harvester Ants
These ants are more likely to be found outdoors, especially in dry, open areas and near gardens. Harvester ants get their name from their habit of collecting seeds for food, and they’re known to clear large bare patches of ground around their nests. They’re red to dark brown in color and can deliver a painful sting if disturbed, making them a concern for families and pets. We have heard people refer to harvester ants as “red ants” or “fire ants.” But, you may be surprised to know, fire ants are a different species all together, and we do not actually have fire ants in Colorado.
Where to look: Look for large, flat nests with no vegetation and scattered seed shells nearby.
3. Pavement Ants
Pavement ants are small, brown to black ants commonly found in driveways, sidewalks, patios, and along foundations. These ants like to create nests in cracks and crevices and are frequently seen forming long trails as they forage for food. They typically create small mounds of soil at entrances of their nest, and nests are often located under pavement or rocks. While they’re not dangerous, their persistence and large colony size make them a nuisance—especially when they find a way indoors.
Where they hide: Under concrete slabs, between pavers, and inside wall voids or baseboards.
4. Odorous House Ants
These tiny brown or black ants are perhaps the most common home invaders. They are drawn to sweet foods, crumbs, and pet food, and they’re quick to form trails into kitchens, pantries, and garbage areas. When threatened or crushed, they release a strong, rotten coconut-like odor, hence their name. According to CSU, heavy mulch adjacent to a building has been shown to lead to increased activity from odorous house ants.
How to spot them: Long trails in your kitchen, especially near sinks or food sources.
Don’t Let Ants Take Over
No matter which species you’re dealing with, ants can quickly go from a minor annoyance to a major infestation. At Complete Pest Control, we specialize in identifying and treating ant problems throughout Colorado Springs—safely and effectively. Contact us today to schedule your inspection!
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