Carpenter Ants: Large (6–13 mm), black/red-black, nest in damp wood.
Odorous House Ants: Small (2–3 mm), dark brown, smell like rotten coconut when crushed.
Fire Ants: Reddish-brown, aggressive, build soil mounds. Painful stings.
Pharaoh Ants: Tiny (1.5–2 mm), yellow-brown, infest warm indoor areas.
Pavement Ants: Dark brown/black, nest under sidewalks or driveways.
Seal cracks and gaps with silicone caulk.
Store food in airtight containers, clean spills immediately.
Fix leaks and eliminate standing water.
Trim vegetation away from buildings.
Fire ant stings cause painful welts or severe allergic reactions.
Contamination of food with bacteria (e.g., Salmonella).
Odorous house ant secretions trigger respiratory allergies.
Carpenter ants weaken wooden structures over time.
Electrical damage from nesting in wiring.