Pharaoh Ants

Pharaoh ants (Monomorium pharaonis) are a very small species of ant—measuring about 2 millimeters, or a little more than 1/16 of an inch long. Their bodies are a yellow and light-brown color, with red and black markings on their abdomens. In warm climates such as Arizona’s, pharaoh ants can be found nesting outdoors in addition to indoor areas throughout homes.

Why Do I Have Pharaoh Ants in Arizona?

Found both indoors and outdoors, pharaoh ants can pose a particularly common problem in restaurants, kitchens, and other spaces with food. Once they establish a colony inside, Arizona homeowners and business owners can be in for a tough time. While pharaoh ants will send some small workers to scrounge for food, there are often many more ants living in a nest nearby. These insects are attracted to spills, crumbs, grease, moisture, sugary food and beverages, and shelter within homes and other structures. As a pantry pest, pharaoh ants can also feed on foods and proteins such as peanut butter, honey, baked goods, and more. However, they may infest locations with no food sources, like pipe chases.

How to Prevent Pharaoh Ants as Pests

Pharaoh ants can become pests when they sneak their ways into your home via cracks, wall voids, poorly sealed entryways, torn window or door screens, and other gaps. To prevent their access, it’s key to ensure all doors, windows, and shutters are closed and tightly sealed and insulated—especially due to the tiny size of these ants. Pharaoh ants have multiple queens in their colonies, making them more powerful and difficult to eradicate than other ant species. Once disturbed, colonies may simply relocate to different locations if not properly removed the first time.