Yellow to reddish; very small, 1/16- to 1/8-inch long.
Habitat
Pharaoh ants nest almost anywhere that provides protection. They are extremely opportunistic and have been found nesting in walls, furniture, appliances, between folded sheets, hollow curtain rods, inside irons and under roofing shingles. They have a high daily water requirement and prefer warm, humid areas close to food and water. Workers range widely from the nest and establish visible trails to food and water sources. They travel from room to room via hidden plumbing pipes and electrical wires.
Diet
Pharaoh ants are opportunistic feeders that will “swarm” on foods that appear within their foraging range, which is why pharaoh ant control often uses bait. Indoors, they feed on meats, nuts, cheese, honey, bread crumbs, meats, grease and pet bowls.
Ant control: pharaoh ants
Pharaoh ant control can be very difficult. Using contact insecticides will cause them to fracture or split into two or more colonies to survive. Baiting forging trails and suspected areas of activity is the most effective pharaoh ant control method. Do not spray or disturb ants or bait stations, and avoid using cleaners around bait placements as this can destroy the integrity of pheromone trails.
