White-Footed Ant

Category:

Actual Size: 2.7 mm

Characteristics: Black to brownish-black with yellow-white tarsi (feet)

Legs: 6

Antennae: Yes

Wings: No

Habitat: Outdoors, will nest at or above ground level in trees, bushes, leaf litter. Indoors, nests are located in attics and wall voids. 

Habits:

  • Colonies range from 8,000 to 3 million individuals.
  • Have been known to short-circuit air conditioning units.
  • Attracted to sweet foods and will also feed on dead insects.

White-footed Ants in Central Florida

White-footed ants get their name from their very light-colored feet. Mature ant colonies can range from 8,000 to 3 million individuals. Common throughout Florida, white-footed ants feed on plant nectars and honeydew. Honeydew is a sweet substance produced by aphids, mealybugs, and scales. White-footed ants are a nuisance pest and are frequently seen crawling in kitchens, bathrooms, and the exterior of homes and buildings.

White-footed Ant Habitat

These ants prefer trees as a habitat and construct nests in tree trunks, branches, and shrubs. They build nests at or above ground level in numerous locations near homes. White-footed ants enter structures through any small opening. These ants are observed trailing heavily on the interior and exterior walls of buildings. Nests can be found in trees, bushes, rain gutters, wall voids, and attics. Colonies are large and seem to be interconnected with other white-footed ant nests in the area.

White-footed Ant Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers

The white-footed ant is a significant household pest, even though they do not bite or sting. Due to their ability to reproduce rapidly and build connecting nests, white-footed ants are a homeowners’ nightmare. White-footed ants can be found trailing in kitchens, bathrooms, and the outside walls of homes. They are attracted to light switches and electrical boxes, which in turn, may cause a fire hazard. If you suspect an issue with white-footed ants, it is recommended to contact a licensed ant exterminator.