Ghost Ant Identification

What are ghost ants?

Ghost ants are a species that thrives in tropical and subtropical habitats, making Florida a perfect place for them to live in large numbers. Named for their coloring makes it difficult to spot these ants; ghost ants have a dark brown colored head and thorax, but their abdomen and legs are pale yellow or almost translucent in color. You can also identify these ants by the foul odor they emit when crushed.

Are ghost ants dangerous?

Ghost ants aren’t dangerous, but they also aren’t wanted. When they get into our homes, they will spread bacteria over counters and other surfaces, contaminate food sources, and their large colony size makes them difficult to eliminate. Partnering with a professional to prevent problems with these and other types of ants is always important!

Why do I have a ghost ant problem?

Ghost ants love to feed on the honeydew produced by garden aphids. Ghost ants are often attracted to properties with lots of gardens and fruit trees that attract aphids and other garden pests. Like other types of ants, things like open trash cans, pet food, and outdoor eating areas also attract ghost ants to properties. 

Moving into our homes through small openings, ghost ants find their way inside while foraging for food. They then often decide to stay and create an indoor nest to expand their colony. 

Where will I find ghost ants?

Ghost ants are well-known for their highly adaptable nesting habits. They will nest almost anywhere, which is one of the biggest reasons these pests are challenging to control and eliminate. Each ghost ant colony has many queens and multiple indoor and outdoor nesting sites. 

Inside, ghost ants like to nest in small cracks in walls or floors, behind sinks or tubs, near water pipes, or around windows or doors. They even nest in potted plants or behind bookshelves. 

Ghost ants place their outdoor nests in tree cavities, dead trees, under fallen trees, and in the soil under leaf or brush piles. These ants are also a particular problem in greenhouses where they like to nest in the soil and feed on garden pests. 

How do I get rid of ghost ants?

Reach out to the experts at Empire Pest Defense to get rid of ghost ants from your property. Through detailed inspections, effective interior and exterior treatments, and ongoing services, we will eliminate these ants and prevent them from returning. 

Empire Pest Defense is a local company with a deep commitment to our community and providing our customers with top-notch services. All of our technicians are licensed, insured, trained, and dedicated to helping West Palm Beach home and business owners keep their properties free of pests. Contact us today and learn more about our residential and commercial pest control services and how to eliminate ghost ants from your property once and for all!

How can I prevent ghost ants in the future?

Avoid problems with ghost ants with the help of the professionals at Empire Pest Defense and our effective pest control solutions and practical prevention tips:

• Rake back leaf litter and weeds from your foundation.

• Make sure your home’s exterior doors close tightly and install door sweeps.

• Repair damaged weatherstripping around windows and doors.

• Seal spaces around wires and utilities that are entering your home.

• Place garden areas away from the outside perimeter of your home.

• Keep their access to food to a minimum by placing lids on trash cans, keeping eating areas free of leftover food, and storing food in sealed containers or the refrigerator.

• Inspect potted plants for ghost ants before bringing them into your home.