Velvety Tree Ants in Central Arkansas
Velvety tree ants are named for their sleek, velvety appearance, particularly noticeable on their abdomens. Often referred to as “tree ants,” these creatures predominantly nest in arboreal locations. When disturbed or crushed, the worker ants emit a distinctive and strong odor, which can also be a sign of an agitated colony. Velvety tree ants leave behind finer frass (sawdust-like material), distinguishing them from the coarser frass produced by carpenter ants.
Velvety Tree Ant Habitat
In nature, velvety tree ants typically choose the forks and hollows of trees for their nests, with a preference for oaks, sycamores, cottonwoods, and pines. When they infest homes, these ants can be problematic as their nesting behaviors mimic those of carpenter ants, including the creation of tunnels and cavities in wood—though they do not actually consume the wood. These ants have a varied diet, consuming both proteins and sugary substances, making them true omnivores.
Velvety Tree Ants Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers
Velvety tree ants are notably aggressive, ready to defend their colony by attacking intruders and spraying them with a foul-smelling secretion similar to that of odorous house ants. Not only do these ants chew through wood, potentially damaging structures, but they also have a fondness for nesting in insulation, which can lead to accumulations of frass and wood shavings. Homeowners might find their nests within the wall voids of houses.
If a velvety tree ant infestation is suspected, it is recommended to contact a professional ant exterminator.
