Bigheaded Ants

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Bigheaded Ants

Bigheaded ants all fall into the genus Pheidole, but there are several different species of bigheaded ant. Depending on which species you are identifying, bigheaded ants can range from yellow to dark reddish-brown in color. They are common in subtropical climates and are considered an invasive species.

Bigheaded Ant Behavior

Bigheaded ants nest in colonies underground that can include several queens, which means that they reproduce year-round. They are soil-nesting ants that can be found nesting outdoors beneath driveways, patios, and pavers on the exteriors of homes. In severe cases, they can even excavate soil well into the interior of the home through baseboards.

Bigheaded ants eat dead insects and small invertebrates as well as honeydew that they extract from insects like aphids and other bugs that eat sap. They will also eat plant materials and even garbage. 

What Do Bigheaded Ants Look Like?

Bigheaded ants have two different kinds of worker ant: the major and the minor worker. The minor worker bigheaded ant, alternatively, has a head that is in proportion to its body. Major worker ants are generally larger and commonly range in size from 1/8 to 1/4 of an inch in length, depending on the particular species of bigheaded ant. The major bigheaded worker ant has an extremely large sized head in comparison to its body, which includes large mandibles, or jaw bones, which they use to crush seeds.  

Are Bigheaded Ants Dangerous?

Bigheaded ants do not cause significant damage to your home or property but larger infestations can cause minor damage to lawns and may even cause damage to houseplants. If the infestation spreads to packaged products and uncovered fruits or meats, bigheaded ants can cause monetary damage in the form of lost pantry items. 

Bigheaded ants do not bite unless disturbed. 

Because bigheaded ant colonies have several queens and are able to reproduce quickly, infestations can spread across landscapes and property lines. For this reason, if you think you have a bigheaded ant issue, it is best to have it taken care of by a professional pest care service.

Find A Pest Specialist For Ant Control

If you are concerned about ants and ant control for your home, please give us a call or fill out the form on this page. PestControlExperts.com is a team of experts who are highly qualified to provide the best recommendations for you and your home, no matter which part of the United States you live in.