Citronella
Ants are about 1/8" to 3/8" in length, and yellowish in color.
They emit a distinct citronella-like scent, especially when they are
crushed. They often live under slabs and may swarm inside homes once or
twice a year. Terrified homeowners may mistake them for termites, but
citronella ants are harmless. The winged "swarmers" usually
die shortly after emerging and do not require chemical control.
- They
do not live inside, but will frequently forage inside in search of
sugary food. They are less of a pest than a distraction, and the
best method of keeping them out of buildings is sanitation. If there
is sugar available, there will be Citronella ants in the school.
- These
ants often "swarm," just like termites, in the spring
and/or fall, always raise havoc because they are so often mistaken
for termites. Citronella ants, however, are harmless.
- When
this happens on the inside, you can vacuum them up for a non-toxic
solution to the problem. This problem can also be
"historic," and happen each year. Consult with your
exterminator about continuing swarming problems.
- Citronella
ants do not need control because they do not live or feed inside
homes or other structures. They feed on the honeydew of aphids in
the soil. Pick up these ants with a vacuum cleaner, then caulk areas
they might use.
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