Pavement Ant

Scientific Name: Tetramorium caespitum

Order & Family: Hymenoptera, Formicidae

Size: 2.5-4 mm (workers)

Pavement Ant

Natural Habitat

Pavement ants are commonly found outdoors under rocks, pavement, stepping stones, and concrete slabs. Indoors, they nest in walls, under floors, and around foundations, especially in areas with moisture.

Diet & Feeding

Opportunistic feeders, pavement ants consume a wide variety of foods including sweets, meats, greasy foods, seeds, and other insects (both living and dead).

Behavior Patterns

Pavement ants form moderate to large colonies with multiple queens possible. They are known for their trails, often seen marching in lines. They forage both day and night, especially during warmer months. They are territorial and will often engage in aggressive battles with other ant colonies.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks include being a nuisance pest when they invade homes searching for food. While they do not transmit diseases, their presence can contaminate food. They can sometimes sting, though it is usually mild. Benefits include consuming other insect pests and organic debris.

Identified on: 9/17/2025