What Are Argentine Ants?
Argentine ants (Linepithema humile) are an invasive species that have become increasingly common throughout North Carolina. These small, light to dark brown ants measure about 2–3 mm long and travel in wide, well-defined trails that can contain thousands of workers.
Habitat & Behavior
What makes Argentine ants particularly challenging is their colony structure. Unlike most ant species, Argentine ant colonies cooperate with each other rather than competing, forming massive “supercolonies” that can span entire neighborhoods. A single colony may contain hundreds of queens.
These ants prefer sweet foods and are commonly found trailing along foundations, up walls, and into kitchens and bathrooms. They nest in moist soil near buildings, under rocks, mulch, and debris. During dry or hot weather, they aggressively move indoors seeking water and food.
Prevention & Control
Argentine ants displace native ant species and can protect plant-damaging aphids and scale insects for their honeydew secretions. Professional treatment is typically necessary because their massive colony networks make DIY control ineffective.