The Allegheny Mound Ant, sometimes referred to as a “field Ant”, is a structural pest that can potentially damage your home. The most identifying trait of the Allegheny Mound Ant is the large mound that they build in open fields and yards. After 5 months, a mound can be 2 feet wide and 8 inches tall, within 2 years the mound can be up to 3 feet tall. Mounds tend to be found in areas that are not mowed on a frequent basis. Ant mounds consist of tunnels that can go 3 feet down into the soil.
Allegheny Mound Ants can inject formic acid into the vegetation that surrounds their mound which causes a danger to small trees and shrubs within 40-50 feet. The younger the tree, the more susceptible to damage or killing when Allegheny Mound Ants are near. They are also known to kill the grass around their mound. Not only do they present a threat to your vegetation and lawn but they can be a concern when working or playing in the area near their mounds. They will bite if they feel their mound is being disturbed.
The number of Allegheny Mound Ants increases rapidly. The time span between an egg and an adult is 2-3 months. The eggs are cared for by workers in the mound during late spring and early summer. A 6”-18” mound can hold up to 500-3,000 ants; 18”-36” mound can hold up to 1,000-6,000 ants; and 36”-60” mound can hold up to 3,000-10,000 ants. “Budding” results when new mounds are formed as ants move on from their previous mounds. These new mounds are usually built in late May to early June.
The good news is that Allegheny Mound Ants rarely enter a home or business structure in search of food. Instead, they feed on smaller insects or aphids and leafhoppers for protein and carbohydrates.
To control Allegheny Mound Ants, wear protective clothing such as pants and boots. When a mound is located, scrape the top of the mound off with a tool that has a long reach, such as a shovel, to ensure you do not get bit. The ants will begin to run once the mound is moved. Apply the product directly inside the mound until it soaks into the soil.
For best results, call Northwest Exterminating for your ant control needs at 888.466.7849 or visit ONLINE