Small Honey Ants in Central Arkansas
In Central Arkansas, the small honey ant is well-adapted to local conditions and is known for its resilience in colder temperatures. These ants maintain smaller colonies that may number only a few thousand individuals, yet they are known for their persistent foraging behaviors. Small honey ants typically venture into homes in search of food, and it’s not uncommon for them to establish indoor nests.
Small Honey Ant Habitat
The small honey ant thrives just above the freezing point, making it an active forager even in cooler temperatures. These ants prefer to nest in damp, shady soil but avoid nesting under stones or similar objects. They are often found near aphids, from which they gather honeydew (a sugary byproduct that is a major food source). Indoors, they may enter through cracks or joints in the foundation and can sometimes be found nesting under floors or within walls.
Small Honey Ant Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers
Despite their harmless nature (they neither bite or sting) small honey ants can become a nuisance. They pose a risk to vegetation, particularly flowering plants, by damaging buds to access sap. Additionally, by tending aphids for honeydew, they can indirectly harm plant health. In homes, their quest for food leads them to sweets, meats, and fruits, which can result in food contamination.
If you suspect a small honey ant infestation, please consult a professional ant exterminator.
