Bigheaded Ants in Florida
Bigheaded ants get their name from their worker’s unusually large heart-shaped head. Considered one of the world’s worst invasive ant species, they are difficult to control as they reproduce year-round. Building large nests in the sand throughout a lawn or landscape, bigheaded ants remove soil, bringing it up through crevices in driveways, patios, and pavers on the exterior of homes. Most species build nests next to foundations where they construct mud tubes, which can be mistaken for subterranean termite activity. Colonies can reach a tremendous size, with huge extended nests and multiple queens.
Bigheaded Ant Habitat
Most bigheaded ants are soil-nesting ants that live on a diet of small insects, and sweet honeydew found in the landscape. Nests are often constructed in the soil next to foundations. Bigheaded ants move quickly and build large colonies with distinct nests, frequently nesting in disturbed habitats like driveways and lawns. They will also nest in leaf litter, firewood, fences, and walls. Infestations typically originate from outside or under a slab foundation. Potted plants are common nest sites that can result in colonies being transported indoors.
How to Identify Bigheaded Ants
Bigheaded ant identification is all in the name. They’re named bigheaded because of the large heads of their main workers, which are used to crush seeds and defend the colony. Minor workers are much smaller, and they do most of the foraging. These ants are typically reddish-brown and about one-sixteenth of an inch long. You’ll often find large numbers trailing along pavement or foundation walls. To identify Bigheaded ants, check for two different sizes in the colony. Also, look for soil pushed out around cracks or expansion joints.
Bigheaded Ant Nests
Florida bigheaded ants prefer nesting in loose soil, under rocks, or near structures. Their nests are often shallow but widespread, and you might see small piles of soil around cracks in concrete. Indoors, they may nest in wall voids, insulation, or behind baseboards, especially if they can access food and moisture. These ants can quickly spread if left untreated, so early detection is crucial.
Bigheaded Ant Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers
Bigheaded ants do not generally bite unless disturbed. While they are capable of biting, their bites are not typically known to cause significant pain. Reactions may vary from person to person, but in most cases, any discomfort is considered mild. As nuisance pests, bigheaded ants are frustrating to homeowners as they create piles of dirt and sand and forage into bathrooms, kitchens, doors, windows, walkways, and driveways. Infestations can be found near structures, ornamental plant bases, and sidewalks. Residents of infested commercial buildings typically complain of finding hundreds of both live and dead ants. Elimination is difficult, as the entire super colony needs to be treated for complete eradication. If you suspect a bigheaded ant issue, it is best to contact a professional ant exterminator.
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Bigheaded Ant Control Methods
To control an infestation of bigheaded ants, you will need more than over-the-counter bait. Their colonies can grow large quickly, and with both minor and major workers performing different roles, treatment needs to address the whole nest, not just the surface activity.
For long-term elimination, it’s best to work with a professional ant exterminator. At Florida Pest Control, we inspect the entire property, locate nests, and apply targeted treatments that help reduce activity and prevent the ants from returning. DIY efforts may offer short-term relief, but they often don’t solve the root cause of the problem.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Bigheaded Ants Invasive?
Yes, bigheaded ants are considered invasive in many areas. Their colonies often include many major workers, which are larger ants with strong jaws used to defend the nest. These ants spread quickly and forage in large numbers, usually taking over outdoor spaces and pushing out native insect species. They build nests in loose soil, cracks, and under debris, making them hard to remove without professional help.
Can Bigheaded Ants Sting?
Big-headed ants do not sting, but their major workers can bite if disturbed. While their bites are not usually dangerous, they can still be unpleasant. These ants are more of a nuisance because of how aggressively they forage for food and how quickly they can spread through soil and landscaping.
Where Do Bigheaded Ants Come From?
Big-headed ants likely originated in Africa or Asia but have now spread to many parts of the world, including the southern United States. They thrive in warm climates, nesting in soil, under stones, or near building foundations. Their foraging habits and the number of major workers in each colony make them tough to manage without expert help. Like other invasive insect species, they adapt quickly and often go unnoticed until they become a larger problem.
