Ghost Ants

What do ghost ants look like?

Ghost ants are appropriately named because their distinct coloration and small size can make them hard to spot. Adults only reach about 1/16th of an inch in length. These tiny ants have a dark brown head and thorax, while their abdomen and legs are pale yellow or almost translucent. When crushed, they emit a smell similar to rotten coconuts, reminiscent of the odorous house ant. Ghost ants are bothersome pests that flourish in warm climates and remain active year-round.

What attracts ghost ants?

Ghost ants are attracted to properties that offer easy access to food and shelter. They are particularly drawn to greasy foods and sugary foods such as spilled soda, crumbs, and pet food. Gardens, compost bins, outdoor eating areas, and damp, moist soil can also attract ghost ants to a property.

Ghost ants are highly adaptable and can build nests both indoors and outdoors. Outdoors, they prefer to nest underground, in tree stumps, under fallen trees, at the bases of tree trunks, under mulch, and in garden areas. Indoors, ghost ants nest in small cracks in walls or floors, behind walls, voids, under floors, behind baseboards, or in potted plants. They also nest behind sinks, showers, and tubs, especially in areas with high moisture content.

Are ghost ants dangerous?

Ghost ants are not a dangerous species of ant. They are considered a nuisance species that commonly invade homes and other structures in Jacksonville and Northeast Florida. Once these ants establish their nests inside, they can be difficult to eliminate and may contaminate food sources. In addition, the odor they emit can be unpleasant.

How do you get rid of ghost ants?

Eliminating ghost ant colonies can be tricky because these pests nest in hard-to-see and reach areas. If you've detected a ghost ant problem, contact Lindsey Pest Services for accurate identification and ant treatments that exterminate the entire colony, not just the ones you see foraging on your property.

Our locally owned and operated pest control company offers home pest control services and commercial pest control solutions to help property owners and managers get rid of ghost ants and other types of ants common in our region.