Ants are one of the most common reasons people call for pest control, as these tiny insects can get in your home in a variety of ways. However, with over 10,000 species, it can be tough to determine which type you have. If you spot ants on your property, try to determine what kind they are before calling in the professionals.

What Ants Might You See in Your Home?

1. Carpenter Ants

Typically reddish black, carpenter ants are found throughout the United States. They build their nests by tunneling through wood, which is why they're mostly found outdoors in trees. However, they can also cause severe property damage when tunneling through a building.

2. Odorous Ants

Odorous ants are dark brown to black, and they often build their nests in wall cracks and under the floors of buildings. They're named for the foul odor they produce when crushed, and while they don't create structural hazards, they can contaminate food.

3. Pavement Ants

Like odorous ants, pavement ants are dark brown to black and can contaminate food. They prefer to build their nests in or under pavement cracks, hence their name.

4. Field Ants

Field ants appear in numerous colors, such as black, brown, yellow-brown, and mixed red. While they usually don't go inside homes or businesses, they can harm people outside by spraying a formic acid that causes pain.

5. Pharaoh Ants

Also called "sugar ants," pharaoh ants are typically yellow or light brown. They frequently invade buildings with lots of food, such as restaurants, grocery stores, and schools. They can also transmit harmful pathogens to people and animals, including salmonella and Streptococcus, so call pest control immediately if you believe these insects are on your property.

6. Fire Ants

These dark reddish-brown ants regularly construct their nests near buildings. In the colder months, they may head inside and build nests under warm objects, such as water heaters or bathtubs. When their nests are disturbed, fire ants often retaliate with painful stings.

If you’re concerned about ants in your home or business, turn to Acme Pest Control Co. For more than 70 years, these bug, termite, and pest control specialists have been serving Concord, NC, and the surrounding areas, also offering wildlife and rodent removal. Learn more about their comprehensive services online, and call (704) 786-4166 to schedule pest control today.