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Ants in Delaware
Odorous house ants and carpenter ants lead spring kitchen calls.
| Peak season | Apr – Jul |
|---|---|
| Size | 1/16 – 1/2 inch |
| Risk | Nuisance; carpenter ants can damage wood |
| Who treats it | Mosquito & Pest Authority (sponsor) |
How to identify them
Odorous house ants are tiny and brown and smell like rotten coconut when crushed. Carpenter ants are large and black, and leave sawdust-like frass.
Ants in Delaware
Spring rain sends ant colonies indoors in search of food and dry nesting spots. Carpenter ants in Delaware often point to moisture-damaged wood around windows, decks or roof lines.
When they’re active
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What you can do now
- Wipe trails with soapy water to remove the scent path.
- Use bait stations, not spray; spray splits colonies.
- Fix leaks and moisture problems that attract carpenter ants.
When to call a pro
Call a pro for carpenter ants, or if baiting hasn’t worked in two weeks.
Ants: common questions
Why do ants show up after it rains?
Wet weather floods outdoor nests and sends ants looking for food and dry places to live. Wiping trails and using baits instead of sprays usually works better.
How can I tell carpenter ants from regular ants?
Carpenter ants are large and black, and they leave sawdust-like frass near their nests. They often point to moisture-damaged wood, so a pro should take a look.
Why shouldn’t I spray the ants I see?
Spray kills the ants you see but can scatter the colony, which can lead to more trails. Bait stations let workers carry the product back to the nest.
Where in Delaware
Where ants rank on each county’s top-pest list:
- New Castle County Not in the county top six
- Kent County Common
- Sussex County Not in the county top six
Towns where ants are on the local top-pest list: