Odorous House Ants

Close-up of an odorous house ant on a white background, small brown ant common in Dallas Fort Worth kitchens.

IDENTIFYING ODOROUS HOUSE ANTS

Odorous house ants, also known as “sugar ants,” are tiny pests with a big reputation for being difficult to eliminate. If you crush one, you’ll notice a distinct odor, some say it smells like rotten coconut, an unpleasant reminder of their presence in your home.

Size/Color: 1/16 to 1/8 inch long; dark brown to black.

Habits: Build large colonies with multiple queens, making them hard to control. Invade kitchens, bathrooms, and pantries in search of sweets and moisture.

Problem: Rapid infestations that spread quickly indoors, especially in warm or rainy weather.

Frequently Asked Questions About ODOROUS HOUSE ANTS