


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