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Cluster of acrobat ants on a leaf - Keep ants away from your home with City Termite & Pest Control in Malvern, AR

Acrobat Ant

Actual Size: 2.5 to 4 mm

Characteristics: Ranging in color from light brown to black, and are easily recognized by their distinct heart-shaped abdomen (which is visible when viewed from above).

Legs: 6

Antennae: Yes

Wings: Swarmer or reproductive ants have wings.

Habitat: Acrobat ants have a preference for moist, decaying wood and are often found inhabiting spaces left behind by carpenter ants or termites. Common nesting sites within homes include wall voids near windows, doors, and insulation areas.

Habits:

  • Outdoor attractions include rose bushes, fruit trees, and other plants frequented by aphids.
  • The ants are drawn to these areas because of the sweet honeydew produced by aphids, which the ants consume.
  • A unique behavior observed in acrobat ants is their tendency to raise their abdomens over their heads when alarmed, a trait that has earned them their name.
  • These ants pose a safety risk as they can strip electrical insulation, leading to short circuits and potential fire hazards.


Acrobat Ants in Central Arkansas

In Central Arkansas, while acrobat ants are not everyday pests, they can become structural nuisances. They utilize their uniquely shaped stinger to fend off threats and capture smaller prey. Similar to carpenter ants, they can tunnel through soft, damp wood and are known to establish nests inside the wooden structures of a house if conditions are moist enough, such as areas with water leakage.

Acrobat Ant Habitat

Outdoors, acrobat ants typically nest in deadwood-like tree branches or stumps. They do not harm these trees but are protective of aphids residing on them. When indoors, they prefer to nest in wood damaged by moisture or previous insect activity and are commonly found around damaged door frames and window sills.

Acrobat Ant Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers

When threatened, acrobat ants may bite and emit an unpleasant odor. Although the bites are not dangerous, they can cause mild irritation lasting a few days. Notably, they are known for infesting foam insulation panels and electrical wiring, which can be dangerous.

If an acrobat ant infestation is suspected, it is recommended to contact a professional ant exterminator.