Ants
Thief ants: identification & thief ant control
Also known as: grease ants, sugar ants
Thief ants are among the smallest household ants and prefer grease and protein over sugar, which is why sugar baits fail. We use protein-based baiting and treat the tight cracks where they nest.
How to identify thief ants
- What it looks like
- Extremely small pale yellow to light brown ants with a two-segmented antennal club.
- Size
- 1/32 to 1/16 inch
- Where you'll find it
- Cabinet cracks, wall voids, under counters and inside other ants' nests.
- Commonly confused with
- Pharaoh ants are slightly larger with a three-segmented club.
Signs of thief ants in your home
- Barely visible ants on greasy surfaces
- Trails to meat, cheese and pet food
- Ants ignoring sweet baits
Thief ants questions homeowners ask
Why won't my ant bait work?
Thief ants prefer grease and protein — sweet gel baits are ignored, so a protein bait is required.
Thief ant control by city
Local technicians handle thief ants in every market below — pick your city for neighborhood coverage, seasonal notes and a free quote.
Thief ant control in Austin, TXThief ant control in Boise, IDThief ant control in Charlotte, NCThief ant control in Charlotte, NCThief ant control in Colorado Springs, COThief ant control in Columbus, OHThief ant control in Columbus, OHThief ant control in Greensboro, NCThief ant control in Indianapolis, INThief ant control in Jacksonville, FLThief ant control in Kansas City, MOThief ant control in Louisville, KYThief ant control in Memphis, TNThief ant control in Miami, FLThief ant control in Nashville, TNThief ant control in Oklahoma City, OKThief ant control in Omaha, NEThief ant control in Phoenix, AZThief ant control in Raleigh, NCThief ant control in Richmond, VAThief ant control in San Antonio, TXThief ant control in Tulsa, OK