Pharaoh Ant (likely fragment/remains)

Natural Habitat

Almost exclusively indoors in heated buildings in temperate climates; nests in wall voids, under floors, electrical outlets, and near heating pipes.

Diet & Feeding

Omnivorous; prefers sweets, fats, proteins, and dead insects. They are drawn to household foods like syrup, jelly, grease, and pet food.

Behavior Patterns

They form large colonies with multiple queens (polygyny) and propagate by 'budding' (splitting off into new colonies) rather than nuptial flights. They forage in organized trails.

Risks & Benefits

Considered a significant pest in homes and hospitals. Can transmit pathogens like Salmonella and Pseudomonas. Their budding behavior makes them difficult to control with standard sprays.

Identified on: 2/7/2026