Ants
Ants are social insects, and this type of behavior has enabled them to become one of the most abundant and successful groups of insects. While more 450 types of ants inhabit North America, only 10 species are known to invade homes in Missouri. But, it only take one type of species to wreck havoc at your home or business.
Biology & Life Cycle
Depending on the species, an ant colony has either a single queen or multiple queens. The queen's primary task is to lay eggs while workers (mostly female) take care of the eggs and larvae, build and defend the nest and locate food to maintain the colony.
Habitats in Missouri
Depending on the species, an ant colony has either a single queen or multiple queens. The queen's primary task is to lay eggs while workers (mostly female) take care of the eggs and larvae, build and defend the nest and locate food to maintain the colony.
Diet & the Search for Food
Ants are omnivores and search for a variety of foods. The search for food is the primary reason ants enter homes and buildings, thus becoming pests. When an ant discovers food, she takes a straight route back to the nest and lays a scent trail as she returns.
Management & Eradication
Eliminating an ant colony requires eliminating the queen and the workers. Following worker trails can provide clues about what the ants are feeding on, where the colony is located and how they are getting into the home.
Learn more from the University of Missouri Extension (opens in a new tab).