The Elongated twig ant is a stunning tree-dwelling species that can best be identified by its unique black and orange coloring. And at first glance, a person may think they’ve stumbled upon a tiny wasp. Immediately, they assume this species to be aggressive and dangerous.
However, the Elongated twig ant is relatively tame and rarely harms humans.
The Elongated Twig ant can be identified by its bi-color and slender appearance. This ant species is a little larger than a quarter of an inch. Many relate its appearance to a wasp due to its coloring and slim shape.
The following can be used to identify the Elongated Twig ant correctly:
The colony of the Elongated Twig ant includes one queen ant and several other members. They are considered arboreal, which means they typically dwell in trees. However, they also nest in dry grass, shrubs, hollow branches, and twigs.
If you happen to encounter this unique ant species, you will only see one in most cases. They are solitary hunters and are not often spotted in large gatherings or massive colonies.
Some consider the Elongated twig ant a pest due to its tendency to sting or bite when threatened or disturbed. For example, if this ant species falls from its nest and lands inside your clothes, it will likely sting in desperation to find its way out.
Candis Hawkinson, a member of the Galveston County Master Gardeners, describes the rarity and nature of an Elongated Twig ant attack:
“We have encountered numerous Elongate Twig Ants over the years while maintaining the Master Gardener Demonstration Garden adjacent to the Galveston County Extension Office. During that time, just one Master Gardener has received an Elongate Twig Ants sting. She was wearing shorts when she happened to sit on an Elongate Twig Ant! She reported the sting to be similar to that of an imported fire ant sting (she still works in the Demonstration Garden but now looks down before sitting!).”
However, they aren’t usually an issue indoors. Elongated Twig ants become a significant issue when they’ve made a home in an area where children play outdoors.
This ant species feeds on live insects like butterflies, moths, and aphids. It also consumes the honeydew produced by aphids and fungus spores.
Elongated Twig ants were first discovered in Mexico and have spread into the southern United States. Here, they are sparse in population, but you may spot them occasionally.
Their range spans from Argentina to Texas, with Caribbean, Hawaii, and Florida populations. The Elongated Twig ant prefers warmer climates with plenty of trees and shrubs to nest.
If you have found this special ant species in your yard, think twice before panicking. The Elongated twig ant can benefit home gardens by consuming plant-destroying pests. And in most cases, they go unnoticed and cause no trouble for humans.
Additionally, if the ants have nested in an area where your children or pets like to play, it may be best to remove the insect to avoid attacks.
On the other hand, if they are found in your home, you’ll certainly want to reach out to the professionals. Like with most home invaders, regardless of their behaviors, they aren’t welcomed. In fact, even though this ant species isn’t known to cause significant problems in the home, it can attract other problematic pests.
Preventing an Infestation of Elongated Twig Ants:
Drive Bye Exterminators has the answer for pest control in your home. Ants are eradicated with our years of experience and quality products.
If you see these ants, or any ants for that matter, call your local pest control company before the infestation gets any worse.