Common Species of ants in Northern California
Pavement Ants
Pavement ants are one of the most common ants you'll see around the house. They are small dark-brown and black ants that build nests under concrete sidewalks and patios. You'll often see them coming out of cracks in the pavement. They're attracted to sweets, so keep an eye out for these around the kitchen.
Fire Ants
Fire ants are one of the most notorious species of ants, primarily due to their distinctive red color and sting. If you run into these they'll typically be clumped up in a mound on the ground. if you run into them, it is crucial you reach out to a licensed exterminator.
Argentine Ants
Argenite ants are shiny light or dark brown. They have long segmented antenna. They are typically 1/16in to 1/4in. Colonies of Argentine ants can be large with multiple queens. They enter homes through cracks in search of food and water.
Carpenter Ants
Carpenter ants are relatively large at about 5/8in. They are black, red, or brown. They cause significant damage by tunneling into moist wood to build nests. Look for smooth tunnels in wood and sawdust type shavings around entry points.