Ants are one of the most prevalent creatures in Arizona. There are over ten species to be found. With Arizona’s mix of grasslands and deserts, it’s home to a variety of species, including, Argentine Ants, Carpenter Ants, Crazy Ants, Fire Ants, Forelius Ants, Leafcutter Ants, Odorous House Ants, Pavement Ants, Pharaoh Ants and Rover Ants! Any influx of ants within your home is an issue that should be dealt with by a professional as ants live in colonies consisting of at least 500,000 ants, on average.
Ant Nests
Ants generally build their nests underground, either in decaying wood, sand, or inside the framework of your home. They are attracted to any type of food source, and we mean any! If your kitchen tops have; left over crumbs or spills, any fruit in a basket, bread left open- ants show up as if beckoned by a call.
All ants are very social creatures, each playing an integral role to the development and function of their colonies. For example, worker ants forage for food, build the nest, and tend to the queen who lays hundreds to thousands of eggs at a time. Soldier ants protect the colonies and assist the worker ants in expansion of the colonies. The winged reproductives take flight from the colonies and go off to begin new ones.
Most Common Ant in Arizona
The most common ant in Arizona is the Fire Ant, pictured here. The Fire Ant will pierce your skin with its abdominal stinger and release venom, repetitively until the ant is removed from your skin.
Whether fire or carpenter ants, ants bite, posing a serious threat to the health and safety of you and your family. If you find yourself with an ant problem call ACTION Termite & Pest Control immediately to prevent further invasion and keep your home pest free.