This small species of ant, also known as the sugar ant, is a common household pest that can become a major nuisance. Odorous House Ants are extremely tough and difficult to remove from the home once they have established themselves. Large colonies contain multiple queens, therefore they breed quickly and have many chains of command in waiting. The Odorous House Ant is a scavenger and a predator that enjoys both the consumption of sweet foods containing sugar and other insects.
​These ants are known to be social and tolerant of other ant species, creating nests diverse with multiple ant species. Odorous House Ants are invasive during the later winter and early spring months, particularly after it rains. Attracted to moisture, these ants are known to gravitate towards standing water. Materials stored close to the home such as firewood and plants making contact with siding are also easy paths for this intrusive ant. Crushing one of these tiny ants between your fingers will emit a smell similar to a rotting coconut.
