Colonies of Pharaoh ants are large, with workers numbering in the thousands. If disturbed, members of the colony will migrate to new locations to establish several new colonies through a process called budding. Pharaoh ants have been implicated in the spread of more than a dozen disease pathogens including salmonella and Streptococcus pyogenes.
They are well-known for being a major problem in hospitals where they will enter wounds, enter in-use IV bottles, and seek moisture from the mouths of sleeping patients.
Due to their colony structure and rapid budding behavior, understanding the lifespan of an ant is essential to disrupting Pharaoh ant infestations before they grow out of control.
Nest in warm, humid areas near sources of food and or water, and nests are usually located in inaccessible areas such as wall voids, behind baseboards, in furniture, under floors and between linens. They are commonly problematic in commercial food handling establishments such as hotels, grocery stores, hospitals and in apartment complexes. They consume syrups, fruit, pies, meats and dead insects.
Prevention is the best method to limit infections, as once these ants have infested your home they respond to traditional treatments by budding and separating into new colonies. Effective pest control for housing includes making sure to seal all possible entry points around the house including small cracks and crevices around doors and windows. Keep kitchen counters and food storage areas clear of debris and crumbs. Eliminate sources of standing water and use a dehumidifier to prevent moisture build-up indoors. Trim back any tree branches and other plants from the house as these can provide highways for these ants to enter the home. Lastly, make sure that any firewood or building materials are stored at least 20 feet from the home because these ants like to build nests in stacks of wood.
Many homeowners ask how long do ants live, especially when Pharaoh ants return even after treatment—this is because their reproductive strategies and resilience allow them to re-establish quickly without targeted intervention.
Consult a professional to create and implement a pest prevention plan if you see any signs of an infestation.
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