Tawny Crazy Ants in Central Arkansas
First identified in Texas in 2002, tawny crazy ants have since migrated to the Central Arkansas area. These ants are believed to be competitive enough to displace native fire ant populations. Unlike other ants that follow pheromone trails in straight lines, tawny crazy ants move in a seemingly disorganized fashion due to their unusually long legs. This can give them a distinctly erratic appearance. They pose a threat to local ecosystems by damaging plant life, displacing other insect species, and wreaking havoc on electrical equipment, thus impacting both urban and rural settings.
Tawny Crazy Ant Habitat
Tawny crazy ants typically build large nests in locations that retain moisture. They exploit any available nook or cranny for their nests, which are often found amid leaf litter, decaying logs, damp soil, and other secluded spots. While they generally nest outdoors, these ants are not averse to indoor environments, especially when on the hunt for food. Their diet is diverse, ranging from household meats and sweets to plant-sucking aphids, whose honeydew they consume. They are also known to hunt small live prey and scavenge dead animals.
Tawny Crazy Ant Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers
While these ants do bite, they lack a stinger, making their bites less threatening and the pain quite mild, dissipating quickly. However, their penchant for infiltrating homes in search of food leads them to electrical systems, where they can inflict severe damage. Tawny crazy ants are notorious for nesting in and destroying electronic devices like TVs, computers, and other appliances by chewing through insulation and wiring, thereby posing serious fire risks.
If a tawny crazy ant infestation is suspected, it is best to consult a professional ant exterminator.
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