Tips & Information on Pavement Ants

Pavement ants control. Over 20 species of rodents are native to BC, and most of them are not pests. The problem rodents are three introduced species that came with the Europeans settling in North America.

These species include the house mouse, Norway rat (brown rat) and roof rat (black rat). These rodents spread wherever humans provide them food and shelter, however, most people do not come into conflict with them until the animals enter their house or outbuilding.

Remove invading rats and house mice immediately with rodent proofing methods. Established populations of these rodents are hard to eliminate, especially if they’ve taken up residence in barns and old houses. Rats and mice breed prolifically. Ignoring a small infestation can soon result in a much larger and more damaging one.

Description

Pavement ants get their name because they make their nests in or under cracks in pavement. They can infest structures.

Pest Facts

Colour: Dark brown to black

Legs: Six

Shape: Segmented, oval

Size: 1/8 inch

Antennae: Yes

Flying: Winged swarms

Habits

These ants will eat almost anything, including insects, seeds, honeydew, honey, bread, meats, nuts and cheese.

Habitat

These ants live in or under pavement cracks.

Threats

These ants do not pose a public health risk, but they can contaminate food and should be avoided. They are not aggressive, but can bite and sting.

Prevention

Eliminate standing water. Pests, such as ants, are attracted to moisture. Keep tree branches and other plants cut back from the house. Sometimes pests use these branches to get into your home.* Make sure that there are no cracks or little openings around your house. Sometimes pests use these to get into your home. Make sure that firewood and building materials are not stored next to your home. Pests like to build nests in stacks of wood.