Acrobat Ants in Knoxville TN
Acrobat ants get their name from the workers’ habit of raising their abdomen above their heads, looking like tiny gymnasts. Common in the Knoxville area, these ant pests typically build nests in damp, decaying or rotting wood. Acrobat ants practice mutualism, which means they tend aphids and feed on the honeydew that the aphids produce. They become an issue for homeowners when they nest in trees and decayed wood around the home, in places like porches and eaves.
Acrobat Ant Habitat
Acrobat ants do not nest in sound wood, but are found in damp or rotting wood. When nesting outdoors acrobat ants prefer to live in trees. Inside homes and businesses, acrobat ants are known to move into abandoned carpenter ant and termite galleries in wood, house voids, and insulation and walls. Nests in homes are often found around windows and drain spouts. Entering homes through small cracks, electrical lines, and tree limbs, acrobat ants can become a real nuisance. When searching for food, these ant pests prefer pantries and kitchen cabinets. If acrobat ant nests are discovered, whether indoors or outdoors, it’s an indication of decaying wood.
Acrobat Ant Behaviors, Threats or Dangers
Acrobat ants may bite when threatened. In some species, workers may emit an unpleasant odor when disturbed. Mild reactions are normal and may last from a few hours to a few days. The real threat posed by acrobat ants is their ability to create safety and fire hazards. They are attracted to electrical equipment and construct nests in woodwork and insulation, stripping the insulation off of wires. This behavior can cause short circuits, creating a fire hazard. If an acrobat ant infestation is suspected, it is recommended to contact a professional ant exterminator.
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