Odorous House Ants
Tapinoma sessile
Odorous house ants are small, brown to black ants that produce a distinctive "rotten coconut" smell when crushed. They're 2.4-3.3mm long with a single flattened node hidden by their abdomen. They trai...
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How to Identify Odorous House Ants
Odorous house ants are small, brown to black ants that produce a distinctive "rotten coconut" smell when crushed. They're 2.
Odorous house ants are small, brown to black ants that produce a distinctive "rotten coconut" smell when crushed. They're 2.4-3.3mm long with a single flattened node hidden by their abdomen. They trail in long lines and are often found near moisture sources.
Odorous House Ants Behavior & Habits
Understanding how odorous house ants behave helps prevent infestations
These ants nest in wall voids, under floors, and near pipes. Colonies can have multiple queens and split easily when disturbed, making DIY treatment difficult. They prefer sweets but eat nearly anything. They're highly adaptable and can relocate nests quickly when threatened.
Odorous House Ants Risks & Dangers
What odorous house ants can do to your health and property
Health Risks
Odorous house ants are nuisance pests and don't bite or sting significantly. They contaminate food and can spread bacteria from garbage to food surfaces.
Property Damage
No structural damage, but large colonies can indicate moisture issues that need addressing.
Signs of Odorous House Ants Infestation
Look for these indicators in your home
Odorous House Ants in Boise & the Treasure Valley
Odorous house ants are the most common indoor ant in Boise homes. They thrive year-round inside but become especially problematic in spring and when summer heat drives them indoors seeking water.
How We Eliminate Odorous House Ants
Professional treatment for complete elimination
Odorous house ant control requires baiting strategies that allow workers to carry poison back to all queens. Spray treatments often cause colonies to "bud" into multiple new colonies. We use non-repellent baits and perimeter treatments for long-term control.
How to Prevent Odorous House Ants
Steps you can take to reduce the risk of infestation
Odorous House Ants Questions Answered
Common questions about identification, prevention, and treatment
Why do these ants smell when crushed?
Odorous house ants produce chemicals called methyl ketones when threatened or crushed, creating their characteristic rotten coconut smell.
Why does spraying make the problem worse?
Repellent sprays cause odorous house ant colonies to "bud"—splitting into multiple new colonies to survive. This can spread the infestation throughout your home.
Similar Pests
Learn about other pests in this category