Pavement ants, scientifically known as Tetramorium immigrans, are common in North America. These small ants typically measure between 1/16 and 1/8 of an inch long, characterized by their dark brown to blackish bodies and noticeably paler legs and antennae. They often nest in pavement cracks, sidewalks, and under rocks, giving them their name. They also establish colonies beneath building foundations, or within walls and under floors.
The Pavement Ant’s Natural Menu
In their natural environments, pavement ants are omnivores, consuming diverse food sources. They frequently prey on small insects, including flies, aphids, and other arthropods, as a protein source.
They also feed on honeydew, a sugary secretion from sap-sucking insects like aphids, which provides essential carbohydrates. Their diet also includes seeds and plant sap, gathered from various types of vegetation. These items contribute to a balanced nutritional intake, supporting the energy needs and growth of the colony. These natural food sources form the foundation of their sustenance when not interacting with human structures.
Common Food Sources in Human Environments
Pavement ants are highly adaptable and opportunistic feeders in human environments. They are attracted to sugary items, readily consuming spilled drinks, fruit, crumbs, honey, and jelly. These high-energy carbohydrates are a preferred food source, often leading them to kitchen counters or pantries.
They also seek out fats and proteins, which are abundant in human environments. Common examples include grease, meat scraps, pet food, and cheese. Dead insects found indoors are another protein source.
They also consume grains and starches, such as bread crumbs, pasta, and cereals. Their scavenging behavior extends to other decaying organic matter and garbage. This broad diet reflects their ability to exploit available resources, making them frequent visitors in and around homes.
How Pavement Ants Find Their Food
Pavement ants use effective foraging strategies to find food for their colonies. Individual scout ants venture out from the nest, searching for food sources.
Once a scout discovers a food item, it lays down a pheromone trail as it returns to the nest. This pheromone trail serves as a communication system, guiding other worker ants directly to the food source.
This coordinated behavior explains why large numbers of pavement ants can appear quickly once food is found. They can travel significant distances, up to 9 meters (approximately 30 feet), from their nest to forage.