What Are Ghost Ants?

A common household invader in Dallas, ghost ants are difficult insects to prevent and even more difficult to eliminate. Ghost ants want to live near humans and take advantage of the food, shelter, and water that we provide.

Ghost ants received their name from their unique coloring which helps them camouflage against predators. These tiny ants have a dark brown head and thorax. In contrast, their abdomen and legs are pale yellow or almost translucent. They are also identified by the rotten-coconut-like smell they emit when crushed.

Ghost Ant Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are ghost ants dangerous?

Ghost ants are not a dangerous ant species. They are nuisance pests that do not cause people physical harm nor do they damage our structures; however, that doesn’t mean they should ever be welcome on our properties. Ghost ants can be difficult to control. Ghost ants will spread bacteria and contaminate food sources. These problems grow in severity as their population increases.

Why do I have a ghost ant problem?

Ghost ants thrive in warm weather climates and are active most of the year. They live together in large colonies. Food is the biggest attractant for ghost ants. They prefer sweet liquids and honeydew produced by aphids and other garden insects.

Gardens, outdoor eating areas, and recycling bins attract ghost ants. After moving inside, ghost ants love to feed on sugary and sweet foods stored in kitchen areas.

Where will I find ghost ants?

Ghost ants like to live outside, but while in the search of food, moisture, or warm shelter, they move inside of our homes or businesses. If your home provides them with easy access to food sources, ghost ants are likely to stay and create multiple satellite nests to expand their colony.

Outside they nest in the ground under:

• Fallen trees and tree stumps
• Woodpiles or rock piles
• Within logs
• Under leaf or brush piles
• Greenhouses

Inside they nest in or behind:

• Wall voids or floors
• Cabinets
• Potted plants
• Tubs, sinks, or shower stalls

How do I get rid of ghost ants?

Don't allow ghost ants to live in your home or business for another day. Get rid of these unwanted guests with the help of All-Safe Pest & Termite. We are a local, family-owned company offering fast response times and top-quality ant control services performed by our friendly and experienced pest professionals.

At All-Safe Pest & Termite, we have a deep understanding of our area's most common pests, including how to eliminate them from Dallas homes and businesses. Discover why your neighbors choose All-Safe Pest & Termite for their pest control needs. Give us a call today to learn more about our effective residential and commercial pest control solutions!

How can I prevent ghost ants in the future?

Prevent problems with ghost ants by partnering with All-Safe Pest & Termite and by implementing the following prevention tips:

• Maintain gardens areas, regularly harvest fruits and vegetables, and pick up any that have fallen to the ground.
• Keep outdoor eating areas clean of leftover food and drink containers.
• Keep tight-fitting lids on trashcans and recycling bins. Store them away from the outside of your home.
• Remove fallen trees, leaf piles, and brush piles from your property as these provide viable nesting areas for ghost ants.
• Keep your kitchen neat, tidy, and free of spills and crumbs.
• Pull out appliances from walls and clean underneath them.
• Allow food and drinks to only be consumed in the kitchen or dining areas of your home.
• Make sure to routinely inspect the outside of your home, sealing cracks and crevices discovered in exterior walls and the foundation.