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Acrobat Ants

Learn More About Acrobat Ants

Known for raising their abdomen above their head, acrobat ants are common in the eastern part of the United States, particularly in North Carolina. Nesting in hollow tree cavities and decaying wood, these ants feed on a variety of foods, including sweets and insects. Entering your home through pipes or electrical wiring, acrobat ants can quickly turn into a pest problem. Giving off a repulsive odor when threatened, acrobat ants are better left outdoors, instead of in your home. For help with prevention or treatment, contact us for comprehensive pest control services!

Pest Identification

Size

1/16 – 1/8 in.

Color

Light brown to black

Body Structure

Head, two spines on thorax and heart-shaped abdomen when viewed from above.

Characteristics

When an acrobat ant is disturbed, it raises its abdomen over its head and thorax in a threatening manner, hence its name. Likewise, worker ants will emit a foul odor and may bite when disturbed. Colonies are formed by flying ants, or “swarmers,” anytime from May to September.

Habitat & Behavior

Acrobat ants nest in moist, damp areas, from rotting logs to tree stumps. Often, acrobat ants will nest indoors wherever damp, damaged wood is present. They also may nest in Styrofoam insulation, wall voids or in the abandoned nests of termites or other wood-boring insects. In the wild, acrobat ants feed on other insects and honeydew. Indoors, they seek out sugary, sweet food items.

Commonly Active

Spring / Summer / Fall

Prevention & Treatment

As with most ants, keeping food prep and dining areas free and clear of food debris is a good way to prevent acrobat ant infestation. Caulking cracks and openings around door frames and around pipes also can help block acrobat ants from entering your home. Presence of acrobat ants may indicate a larger moisture problem in your home. Also, tracking acrobat ants’ trail back to the nest often is difficult. It is recommended that a pest control professional inspect your home to find the actual source of infestation.

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