Common Ants Found in Tennessee
Ants are among the most common household pests in Tennessee, especially during the warmer months. With our region’s humidity, abundant food sources, and natural landscapes, ants can easily find their way into homes and businesses. While many ants are simply a nuisance, others can pose real threats—damaging structures, contaminating food, or even stinging pets and people. That’s why correctly identifying the type of ant in your home is the first and most important step to effective control.
Why Ant Identification Matters
Not all ants are the same—and neither are the ways to get rid of them. Different species have different nesting habits, behaviors, and food preferences. Some ants, like carpenter ants, can cause structural damage to your home, while others, like pharaoh ants, can spread harmful bacteria. Accurate identification helps determine the best treatment approach and can also signal when it’s time to bring in a professional pest control expert.
Common Ant Species in Tennessee
Several types of ants are commonly found across Tennessee, each with its own behavior and level of concern.
Carpenter Ants
Carpenter ants are among the largest ant species in the region, typically black or reddish-black in color. These ants don’t eat wood but excavate it to build their nests, which can lead to significant structural damage if left untreated. They’re often found in damp or decaying wood, making attics, basements, and wall voids their preferred habitat.
Odorous House Ants
Odorous house ants are small and dark brown to black. They're named for the distinct rotten coconut smell they release when crushed. These ants are usually found in kitchens or pantries, where they forage for sugary foods.
Pavement Ants
Pavement ants are small and dark in color, known for the parallel lines on their head and thorax. They often build nests under sidewalks, driveways, and foundation slabs but will move indoors in search of food, especially sweets and greasy items.
Argentine Ants
Argentine ants range from light to dark brown and form massive colonies that can displace other native ant species. They are typically found in moist areas around the foundation of homes and will readily invade indoor spaces when conditions outside become unfavorable.
Pharaoh Ants
Pharaoh ants are tiny, pale yellow or reddish with darker abdomens. They thrive in warm indoor environments and are particularly problematic in hospitals, apartment complexes, and commercial spaces. Known for their ability to spread bacteria, these ants can be very difficult to control without professional help.
Fire Ants
Fire ants are easily recognized by their reddish-brown bodies and painful sting. These aggressive ants build large dirt mounds in sunny areas like lawns, parks, and open fields. Their stings can cause allergic reactions, making them a threat to pets and people alike.
Comparison of Ant Species
Signs of an Ant Infestation
Recognizing the signs early can help stop a small problem from becoming a big one. Watch for:
- Visible trails of ants along baseboards, windows, and countertops
- Piles of dirt or sand near your foundation or driveway
- Rustling or tapping noises in walls (a potential sign of carpenter ants)
- Food being carried away, especially sweets or greasy items
When to Call a Professional
While some ant problems can be handled with DIY solutions, there are times when professional help is essential. If you’ve tried sprays or bait with no success, if the infestation keeps returning, or if you suspect aggressive or destructive species like carpenter or fire ants, it’s time to call in the experts. Your safety and peace of mind—especially when children or pets are involved—should come first.
How Sherrill Pest Control Can Help
At Sherrill Pest Control, we understand the unique ant challenges that homeowners face in Middle Tennessee. Our process starts with a thorough inspection to identify the ant species and locate the source of the infestation. From there, we craft a customized treatment plan using eco-friendly, effective solutions that are proven to work. As a family-owned, locally trusted company, we’re committed to delivering pest control with integrity, experience, and care—just as we’ve done for over 50 years. Contact our team today for interior ant control!