About Odorous House Ants

Odorous house ants (Tapinoma sessile) are tiny ants (1/16–1/8 inch long), dark brown to black, and often nest in soil, mulch, wall voids, or under floors. They are known for their distinct, unpleasant odor when crushed.

Risks & Concerns

They contaminate food, especially sweets, and can trail in large numbers, making infestations difficult to ignore. Colonies can relocate quickly if disturbed, making them resilient.

Prevention & Control

Maintain good sanitation, store food tightly, and seal cracks around foundations. Because of their ability to relocate colonies, professional baiting programs are often the most reliable method of control.