Pavement Ant – Tetramorium caespitum

Identification

• light to dark brown in color with fine grooves lining the head
• appendages (legs and antennae) lighter in color than the rest of the bod

Nesting Habits

• characteristically produce small mounds at the entry of nests
• nests often located outdoors under stones, pavement, wood, next to buildings and under building foundations
• enter homes through cracks in concrete, and nest in walls, under floors and around sinks

Diet

• prefer greasy materials such as meats, pet food, sweets, bread, nuts and insects

Significance

• contaminate sweets (sugar, fruits, syrups, etc.) and greasy foods

IPM Recommendations:

• Locate and destroy nests.
• Store food in airtight containers, and dispose of trash regularly.
• Seal potential ant entryways.

Additional Resources

• Pavement Ants Around Buildings  — YouTube video