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Eagle Pest Services
Pest Identification
You're visiting our pest identification library with information about the biology and control of common household pests.
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| Appearance |
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 Golden-yellow; one of the smallest ants, 1/16- to 1/8-inch long. |
| Habitat |
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| Thief ants derive their name from their habit of establishing colonies close to other ants to steal their food, and even capture and eat other ants' eggs and larvae. They nest outdoors in soil, trash and rotten wood and tree cavities, and indoors in small crevices, woodwork and masonry. Finding the nests is extremely difficult, so thief ant control is best handled by professionals. Thief ants commonly enter structures during hot, dry weather. |
| Diet |
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Thief ants prefer high-protein foods, but will feed on sweets. They eat almost any organic matter, including insects, honeydew, seeds, meats, fruit, bread crumbs, oils, nuts, pet foods and dairy products.
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| Control |
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| Thief ant control can be difficult. They are often mistaken for the slightly larger pharaoh ants; unfortunately, the bait used for pharaoh ant control may not be effective for thief ants. The first step is to locate their nests, by following the trial of foraging workers back from their food source. An experienced ant control professional can tell you which different baits are likely to achieve best results. |
Pest Library - ANts Schedule a free inspection today
Deborah P., Alexandria VA
“Eagle answered our questions professionally. Technicians showed up on time and were courteous and cheerful. The price for heat treatment was expensive, but a lot less than the other heat treatment provider we interviewed--and unlike the other provider, the estimate was free.”
Brittany Campbell, National Pest Management Association
I just wanted to say that your technician, Jason (I don't know his last name) came to my apartment this morning to look at a fly issue and he was extremely professional, wore all the proper PPE, and did a thorough inspection of my home. I'm an entomologist at the National Pest Management Association (I have a PhD in urban entomology and train the pest control industry-- so I can vouch for the technician's knowledge and professionalism).I'm grateful for Jason and all of the PMPs out there working hard during these difficult times so please let Jason's supervisor know he did a great job and gave excellent customer service.
Bob S., Upperville VA
When I learned that my elderly Uncle had a heavy infestation of bedbugs, I began looking for solutions. I tried several contractors, but one stood out from the others. My situation was very unique, as I live 250 miles away from my Uncle, and cannot be there all the time. It was such a relief to find Eagle Pest, as they coordinated everything for me. From initial contact, all the way through to a very challenging heat treatment and follow up visits, they were fantastic. I had total peace of mind in dealing with the Eagle Pest team, and am very happy to report that my Uncle is rid of bed bugs and back into a healthy way of life. Thank you so much, Eagle Pest, you folks are the best. A definite 5-Star rating in my book.
Michelle R., Stafford VA
“Bye Bye Ants :)) love this company. I switched from another company and I am so happy that I did :) they are very knowledgeable and the employees are so friendly!!!!”
Marilyn O., Warrenton VA
“Outside pest spray. They were on time, explained what they were going to do & what was needed in the future. After she had examined the exterior, decided what was needed, she did it with no delay.”
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