Idaho, the Gem State, is known for its beautiful natural landscapes and diverse wildlife. However, it is also home to a variety of ant species, which can be found throughout the state. Ants are most common during spring and summer but can be active all year round. Let’s look at some of the most common ant species in Idaho: black carpenter ants, pharaoh ants, little black ants, house ants, and pavement ants.
1. Carpenter Ants
The carpenter ant (Camponotus modoc) is one of Idaho’s most common ant species, with workers measuring up to 1 inch in length. They are commonly found in forests, woodlands, and urban areas, where they nest in decaying wood or trees. Carpenter ants get their name because they form tunnels in wood, which can cause damage to buildings and structures. However, they do not actually eat the wood they simply tunnel through it to create their nests. Signs of a carpenter ant infestation are you can see ants there, there are small openings on the surface of the wood, and below the openings, there will be a pile of debris that looks like sawdust shavings.
2. Pharaoh Ants
Pharaoh ants (Monomorium pharaonis) are small ants, measuring only about 1/16 inch in length. They are usually pale yellowish to reddish color. These are a common household pest in Idaho and are known for their ability to infest buildings quickly. Pharaoh ants can nest in a variety of places, including wall voids, behind baseboards, and in electrical equipment. They are found in commercial establishments such as hotels, hospitals, and grocery stores. Pharoah ants are also known to spread disease causing bacteria, which making them a health hazard in homes and hospitals. If you want to learn more about Pharoah ants check out this link.
3. Little Black Ants
Little black ants (Monomorium minimum) are another ant species commonly found here in Idaho. Their swarms are common during the summer months and during this time it is common to find them on sidewalks. They measure only about 1/16 inch in length and are typically black in color. They are found in a variety of places, including forests, fields, and urban areas. In homes, they can be found in the woodwork, wall voids, and behind faucets. They are known for their ability to form large colonies. Little black ants are omnivores and will feed on a variety of foods, including sweets, meats, and vegetables.
4. Odorous House Ants
Odorous house ants (Tapinoma sessile) are another common household pest in Idaho. They are small, measuring only about 1/8 inch in length, and are light brown in color. Odorous house ants get their name from the smell they give off when crushed, their smell has been described as rotten coconut or blue cheese. They like to feed on a variety of foods, including sweets, meats, and greasy foods. Odorous house ants are attracted to moisture and may be found in wall voids near hot water pipes, and beneath leaky fixtures. House ants are known for their ability to form large colonies, and can quickly infest a home and contaminate food.
5. Pavement Ants
Pavement ants (Tetramorium caespitum) are another common ant species found here in Idaho. They are small, measuring only about 1/8 inch in length, and are dark brown to black in color. They get their name because they typically make their nests in or under pavement cracks, but if they make their nest indoors they can be found in walls, insulation, and under floors. Pavement ants are omnivores and will feed on various foods, including sweets, meats, seeds and bread.
Idaho is home to a variety of ant species, each with its own unique characteristics and habits. We hope that by learning about some of the common ants found here in Idaho, homeowners and businesses can better identify ant infestations in their homes. Were you aware of these different kinds of ants that live here in Idaho? If you are experiencing problems with ants in your home or business you can give us a call or text at 208-917-3577 or fill out the form on our website.