Lawn Ant (Yellow Ant / Cornfield Ant)

Natural Habitat

Open areas with little vegetation, including lawns, fields, and sidewalks. They often nest in the soil under objects or create small craters of soil at the surface.

Diet & Feeding

Omnivorous. They feed on the honeydew of aphids and other insects, as well as dead insects and nectar.

Behavior Patterns

They are highly social insects that live in colonies. They are known for 'farming' root aphids for honeydew. During late summer and early fall, winged reproductive 'swarmers' emerge from nests to mate.

Risks & Benefits

They are generally not harmful to humans as they do not possess a potent sting. While they can be a minor nuisance when they enter homes or disrupt lawns with mounds, they benefit the ecosystem by aerating the soil and preying on other small pests.

Identified on: 4/19/2026