Harvester Ants

About Harvester Ants

Harvester ants are larger ants, about ¼ to ½ inch long and can be red to dark brown and even black. There are many species of harvester ants, and they are very common, especially west of the Mississippi. They are generally not considered to be serious pests, but since they can inflict painful stings, having them near a playground or your front door, it’s not an ideal situation.

Harvester Ant Habitat and Habits

Harvester ant colonies live underground. They get their name from the way they gather seeds and remove grass around their nest area. This helps to regulate the temperature in the nest below ground. A harvester ant nest will have a central entrance with a small mound in the center. There will be no grass in a rough three to six foot circle surrounding the center of the nest. At certain times during the year, winged ants will emerge to find new nest sites and become a nuisance, but this is short lived.

Harvester Ant Control

Harvester ants should be left alone if they are not a direct threat or nuisance. They provide food for many animals, and also help distribute grass seed, and are overall beneficial. However, if control becomes necessary, you can easily get rid of harvester ants using the right professional products.

• Granular ant baits are the best choice to control harvester ants. Nearly any granular ant bait will work, but look for those labeled for use on harvester ants.
• Products with abamectin, like Advance 375A Select Granular Ant Bait, bifenthrin, like Talstar PL Granules and hydramethylnon, like Maxforce Complete Granular Bait, among many others, will all be effective against harvester ants.
• Always follow the label instructions carefully, but 2-5 tablespoons of granular bait scattered over the colony’s central opening should be sufficient to control the colony.
• For non-chemical control, destroy nests and habitat with regular mowing and other lawn maintenance.