| Scientific name | Monomorium pharaonis |
|---|---|
| Group | Ants |
| Size | 1.5–2 mm (up to about 0.08 in) |
| Colors | Yellow and Tan |
| Legs | 6 legs |
| Wings | No (as usually seen) |
| Where found | Kitchen and Bathroom |
| Most active | Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter |
| Bites | No |
| Stings | No |
| Risk level | Nuisance |
How to identify it
The Pharaoh ant is a tiny member of the ants group. Elbowed antennae and a pinched waist with one or two nodes. Check for these three features:
- Very small, light yellow to amber body with a darker abdomen
- Two-node waist and a three-segment antennal club
- Trails along plumbing, outlets and baseboards
About this bug
A tiny, pale yellow ant that nests in warm, hidden spots inside walls, cabinets and appliances. Colonies split into new nests when disturbed, which makes them hard to control.
You'll usually find Pharaoh ants in the kitchen and in the bathroom. They are most active in spring, summer, fall and winter.
Is it dangerous?
They don't bite, but in hospitals and kitchens they can carry bacteria onto clean surfaces.
Our rating: Nuisance, meaning it is a nuisance pest but not a health threat to most people.
When you'll see Pharaoh ants
Pharaoh Ants are most active in spring, summer, fall and winter. In spring, overwintering adults become active and many species lay their first eggs. Summer heat speeds up development, so populations can grow quickly. In fall, many bugs look for shelter, and some move toward or into buildings. In winter, activity continues mainly indoors in heated spaces.
Typical places to check: kitchen and bathroom.
About ants
The Pharaoh ant is one of the ants. Ants live in colonies ruled by one or more egg-laying queens. The workers you see are sterile females foraging for the rest of the colony, so killing visible ants rarely solves anything. Winged ants, called swarmers, appear when a mature colony sends out new kings and queens.
Bait works because workers carry it back and share it with the queen and larvae. Repellent sprays can scatter the colony and make the problem harder to fix.
What to do about it
- Use slow-acting baits only, because sprays cause colonies to split
- Place many small bait stations along every trail
- Call a professional for large or multi-unit infestations
Read the full guide: how to get rid of Pharaoh ants.
Bugs that look similar
Size: Red Imported Fire Ants are larger, reaching 6 mm, while Pharaoh ants top out around 2 mm.
Color: Pharaoh Ants are yellow and tan; odorous house ants are black and brown.
Color: Pharaoh Ants are yellow and tan; little black ants are black.
Frequently asked questions
What does a Pharaoh ant look like?
Very small, light yellow to amber body with a darker abdomen. Adults measure 1.5–2 mm (up to about 0.08 in).
Does the Pharaoh ant bite or sting?
It does not bite. It does not sting. They don't bite, but in hospitals and kitchens they can carry bacteria onto clean surfaces.
Where do Pharaoh ants live?
Pharaoh Ants live in the kitchen and in the bathroom.
When are Pharaoh ants most active?
Mostly in spring, summer, fall and winter.