Larger Yellow Ants in Central Arkansas
In the Central Arkansas region, the larger yellow ant is a familiar sight. These ants are primarily nocturnal and do not typically consume household food. Instead, they feed on honeydew produced by aphids and mealybugs. Home infestations are most common in late summer and autumn when colonies swell in size and swarm. Despite their peaceful nature, their appearance (especially the winged swarmers) can lead to confusion with more destructive pests like termites or carpenter ants.
Larger Yellow Ant Habitat
Outdoors, these ants favor moist soil areas adjacent to structures or along foundation walls, under various natural debris like stumps or rocks. In residential settings, they may also form nests behind the walls of bathtubs or showers or in damp basements during winter. The nests can sometimes be identified by the mounds of soil, sometimes as wide as three feet, that accumulate from their tunneling activities.
Larger Yellow Ant Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers
Although the larger yellow ant lacks a stinger and is not aggressive, it can become bothersome, especially when swarms invade homes. The ants can disrupt homeowners by excavating soil from basement walls or floor cracks. Large swarms may gather on building exteriors, prompting undue concern over an infestation. While they do not damage structures, their presence can be unsettling.
If a larger yellow ant issue is suspected, it is best to consult a professional ant exterminator.
