Pharaoh Ant

Natural Habitat

Indoor environments like kitchens, bathrooms, and heating ducts, particularly within wall voids or behind baseboards.

Diet & Feeding

Broadly omnivorous, eating sweets, proteins, and fats. They often seek out water and grease.

Behavior Patterns

Known for 'budding,' where a sub-colony migrates with a queen to form a new nest when the main colony is disturbed or overpopulated. They are highly persistent and follow well-defined scent trails.

Risks & Benefits

Major pest in hospitals and homes as they can mechanically transmit pathogens like Salmonella and Streptococcus. They are difficult to eliminate with contact sprays, which often cause the colony to split.

Identified on: 1/4/2026