Pharaoh Ant

Found worldwide in heated buildings, hospitals, homes, and offices, often nesting in wall voids, behind baseboards, and in warm, humid areas.

Omnivorous, feeding on a wide variety of foods including sweets, proteins, grease, dead insects, and pet food.

Forms large colonies with multiple queens (polygynous) and practices budding, where part of the colony moves to a new location if disturbed or when resources are abundant.

Major household and urban pest that can contaminate food and spread pathogens in hospitals, but generally harmless otherwise.