Ants, including pavement ants, are common pests that can be found in homes and businesses throughout New Jersey. These small insects are not only a nuisance but can also cause structural damage and contaminate food. Pavement ants, in particular, are a widespread species in urban and suburban environments, thriving in the state’s seasonal climate. Understanding their behavior, seasonal characteristics, and how to prevent and eliminate infestations is key to keeping your home free of ants.

Origins of Pavement Ants and Their Presence in New Jersey
Pavement ants, scientifically known as Tetramorium caespitum, are thought to have originated in Europe and were brought to the United States in the 18th century through trade routes. They have since spread throughout the country, thriving in urban areas where they find plenty of food and shelter. In New Jersey, pavement ants are especially prevalent due to the mix of residential, commercial, and agricultural areas that provide ample food sources and nesting opportunities.

These ants get their name from their tendency to nest under pavements, sidewalks, and driveways. However, they also build nests in cracks in foundations, between bricks, and sometimes inside homes if they find suitable conditions. Pavement ants are small, measuring about 1/8 inch long, and are typically dark brown or black. They are often spotted in large numbers foraging for food, particularly sugary substances and proteins.

Seasonal Characteristics of Pavement Ants
Pavement ants are active throughout the warmer months, from late spring through early fall. During this time, they are busy foraging for food and expanding their colonies. They often enter homes in search of crumbs, spills, or uncovered food, making kitchens and pantries prime targets. In the summer, they can be seen trailing along sidewalks or entering homes through tiny cracks and gaps.

During the colder months, pavement ants typically retreat to their nests underground or within walls to survive the winter. However, they can still be active indoors during winter if they find warmth and food, particularly in basements or near heating systems.

Health Concerns and Problems Caused by Pavement Ants
While pavement ants do not pose significant health risks to humans, they can still cause a variety of issues:

Food Contamination: Pavement ants often invade homes in large numbers, contaminating food sources as they forage. They are particularly attracted to sugary and greasy foods, and their presence in the kitchen or pantry can be unsanitary.

Biting: Although pavement ants are not aggressive, they may bite if provoked. Their bites are not harmful, but they can cause minor irritation.

Structural Damage: Pavement ants can cause damage to the foundations of buildings or pavement by tunneling and creating nests under concrete or between bricks. Over time, these nests can weaken the structural integrity of sidewalks, driveways, and building foundations.

Infestation Growth: Pavement ants reproduce rapidly, and if left unchecked, their colonies can grow to tens of thousands of ants. Large infestations can be difficult to control without professional intervention.

What Pavement Ants Do When They Feel Threatened
When pavement ants feel threatened, such as when their nest is disturbed, they may become defensive and swarm. Although they do not sting like other ants, they can bite, though their bites are typically harmless. They may also relocate their nest to a new area nearby if they sense danger, making them harder to eradicate without proper treatment.

Preventing Pavement Ant Infestations
Preventing pavement ants from entering your home or business requires a combination of good hygiene practices and proper maintenance. Here are some effective prevention strategies:

Seal Entry Points: Inspect the exterior of your home for cracks, gaps, and holes that ants might use to enter. Seal these entry points with caulk or weather stripping to keep ants out.

Keep Food Sealed: Ants are attracted to food, particularly sugary and greasy items. Store food in airtight containers, clean up crumbs and spills immediately, and take out the trash regularly to reduce attractants.

Eliminate Moisture: Ants are drawn to moisture, so repair any leaky faucets or pipes, and ensure that gutters and downspouts direct water away from your home’s foundation.

Keep Areas Clean: Regularly clean areas where food is prepared or consumed, such as kitchens and dining rooms. Vacuuming floors and wiping down countertops can help eliminate food sources that attract ants.

Remove Potential Nesting Sites: Outdoors, clear away any debris, such as leaves, rocks, or firewood, that might provide a suitable nesting site for ants. Ensure that pavement cracks and gaps between bricks or stones are properly sealed.

Treatment to Eliminate Pavement Ants
If pavement ants have already established themselves in or around your home, there are several effective treatment methods:

Baiting: Ant baits are one of the most effective methods for eliminating pavement ants. Worker ants take the bait back to the nest, where it is shared with the rest of the colony, eventually killing the queen and the colony.

Insecticide Sprays: Spraying insecticides around the perimeter of your home and in areas where ants are active can help reduce their population. However, this method may not address the root cause of the infestation if the nest is hidden or hard to reach.

Professional Pest Control: For large infestations or recurring problems, hiring a professional pest control company is recommended. Pest control experts can identify the location of the nest, apply the appropriate treatments, and help prevent future infestations.

Outdoor Barriers: Applying a perimeter treatment around the foundation of your home can create a barrier that repels ants and prevents them from entering. This method is particularly effective during the spring and summer months when ants are most active.

Conclusion
Pavement ants are a common nuisance in New Jersey, particularly in urban areas where they find food and shelter. While they do not pose serious health risks, they can contaminate food, cause structural damage, and become a significant problem if left unchecked. Preventative measures, such as sealing entry points and keeping food stored properly, can help reduce the risk of an infestation. If pavement ants do become a problem, professional pest control services, along with baiting and insecticide treatments, are effective solutions to eliminate them and keep them from returning.