White-footed Ants
Technomyrmex spp.
White-footed ants get their common name from their very light-colored feet. Mature colonies can range from 8,000 to 3 million individuals, with as many as 33 percent being reproductive.
Pest Stats
Color
Black to brown body with pale yellowish-white tarsi or “feet”
Legs
Six
Shape
Thorax lacks spine; profile unevenly rounded
Size
1/8” (2.5-3 mm) long
Antennae
Yes
White-footed Ant Photos
Videos View All Videos
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Watch this video highlighting the basics on the number one nuisance pest in America - ants.
-
Watch this video to learn where ants are most commonly found in homes and advice on how to get rid of ants.
-
Watch this video to learn how to prevent ants and what to do if you have ants in your home.
-
What attracts ants to my kitchen counter? Dr. Jim Fredericks, chief entomologist for the National Pest Management Association, discusses why ants tend to march into the heart of the home. Visit the Ants Pest Guide to learn more about the common types of ants.
-
How are ants able to carry such large crumbs? Dr. Jim Fredericks, chief entomologist for the National Pest Management Association, explains. Discover additional information about ants and ant control.
White-footed ants get their common name from their very light-colored feet. Mature colonies can range from 8,000 to 3 million individuals, with as many as 33 percent being reproductive.
Pest Stats
Color
Black to brown body with pale yellowish-white tarsi or “feet”
Legs
Six
Shape
Thorax lacks spine; profile unevenly rounded
Size
1/8” (2.5-3 mm) long
Antennae
Yes
Videos View All Videos
-
Watch this video highlighting the basics on the number one nuisance pest in America - ants.
-
Watch this video to learn where ants are most commonly found in homes and advice on how to get rid of ants.
-
Watch this video to learn how to prevent ants and what to do if you have ants in your home.
-
What attracts ants to my kitchen counter? Dr. Jim Fredericks, chief entomologist for the National Pest Management Association, discusses why ants tend to march into the heart of the home. Visit the Ants Pest Guide to learn more about the common types of ants.
-
How are ants able to carry such large crumbs? Dr. Jim Fredericks, chief entomologist for the National Pest Management Association, explains. Discover additional information about ants and ant control.
Habits
White-footed ants prefer to feed on honeydew and nectar at night, and will readily invade homes in search of sweet liquids and water. Unlike most ants, foraging white-footed ants do not share their food with other ants. Instead, many of the sterile workers in the colony lay eggs, called trophic eggs, which serve as the food source for the larvae and the non-foraging adults.
Habitat
White-footed ants infest both urban and rural habitats, as they spread to other areas through commerce, such as nursery stock and shipping containers. Preferred nesting sites are near moisture and food sources that also provide protection from predators and harsh environmental conditions.
Outdoors, this type of ant can likes to nest in moist microenvironments, including under loose bark or rocks, in decaying tree trunks and branches, and in old termite galleries. In homes, white-footed ants can be found nesting in wall voids, attics, under roof shingles, around skylights, and in kitchens and bathrooms.
Threats
White-footed ants don't have a stinger and do not cause any structural damage. However, they can become a nuisance if they find a way inside the home.
White-footed Ant Prevention
Nest location is ideal in the prevention of white-footed ants. Once the nest has been located, remove possible harborage sites, such as rocks, wood, concrete objects, etc. It's also important to seal any cracks or crevices on the exterior of the home.
Consider working with a licensed pest professional to employ a preventative pest management plan or treat an existing infestation.
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