How to Identify the Top 10 Creepy Ants in California

You might think that ants are the last thing you'd have to worry about in a state with alligators. However, these tiny creepy crawlies are far more likely to find their way into your home and yard. Ants can destroy lawns, infest food stores and some of them have a nasty bite. Read on to find out about 10 species of ants in California. 

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1. Silvery Field Ant

The silvery field ant isn't usually spotted in people's yards, although they might be if you have a larger property. These silver-bodied critters are some of the rarer ants in California, but we'd still recommend calling in Pest Control to help you if you do spot one. 

2. Pharaoh Ant

Pharaoh ants are small and yellow. They can bite when they feel threatened, although it's not much of a sting for humans. However, although the bite may not hurt, it carries Staphylococcus, Streptococcus and salmonella. These ants in California love sweet and sticky foods, so keen bakers, beware. 

3. Western Carpenter Ant

The western carpenter ant is similarly-named to the smooth carpenter ant, but they look and act quite differently. As you might have guessed, this species is most commonly found in the west, and it's one of the most abundant ants in California. Its body is usually matte dark brown. 

4. Smooth Carpenter Ant

Smooth carpenter ants have the typical black or shiny red bodies that you see in kid's books. They have one node in the center of their body and an evenly-rounded thorax.  

5. Velvety Tree Ant

Although velvety tree ants look similar to carpenter ants, there are several key differences. The shape is nearly identical, but its body is covered in lots of tiny hairs — hence the name. 

6. Ghost Ant 

Ghost ants might not bite or sting, but they love making your home into their home. Similar to their odorous cousins, they emit a rotten coconut-like smell when they're crushed. 

7. Odorous House Ant

Also known as a sugar ant, stink ant and coconut ant, this small brown ant is one of the most common ants in California. They like grease and sweet, sticky foods, but they're almost impossible to eliminate without the help of a pest control company. 

8. Bicolored Pyramid Ant

The pyramid ant is named because of the shape of its thorax. It's head and upper body are a brownish color, and the abdomen is black. 

9. High Noon Ant

This little guy got his name because he loves the heat of the midday sun. It's tiny, with a black, reddish-brown or brown body.

10. Argentine Ant

Argentine ants don't bite, but they can be total nuisances. They're brown with prominent antenna, and you'll see plenty of these ants in California.  

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Get Help With Ants In California Today

If you've got ants in your yard or home, there's no need to fear. At Joel's Pest Control, we've helped thousands of people to eliminate ants from their property. Call us today at 530-435-7897, and we'll help you restore your home to its former glory.

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