Citronella Ant (or Larger Yellow Ant)

Nests are typically found in the soil under logs, rocks, patio blocks, or next to foundation walls. They often come to the surface during mating swarms.

They feed almost exclusively on the honeydew produced by aphids and mealybugs that live on the roots of plants underground.

They are subterranean and rarely seen unless they are swarming to mate. When threatened or crushed, they emit a distinct lemon or citronella-like scent. Swarming typically occurs in the late summer or autumn.

They are considered a nuisance pest when they swarm inside or near homes, but they do not cause structural damage and do not bite or sting humans. They are beneficial to the ecosystem through soil aeration.