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REGIONAL PEST REPORT

Winter season

Pest threat

Mice are moving inside and other wildlife may be looking for potential harbourage areas. Cluster flies have hibernated in attics and wall voids. As the temperature fluctuates keep your eyes and ears open for the signs and sounds of unwanted pests this winter. Carpenter ant activity may be seen in the home where moisture is found on a warmer day.

 

Stay alert

Get more info on local pests

Odorous Ant (Tapinoma sessile)

Odorous Ant

Identification

  • Is found mainly in southern portions of Canada
  • Emits a rotten, coconut-like odour when crushed
  • Measures between 2.4 and 3.3 mm in length
  • Body coloration varies from brown to black
  • Has 12-segmented antennae, without a club
  • Has an unevenly-rounded thorax
  • Is one-noded (i.e. 1 segment attaches the abdomen to the thorax)
  • Has no stinger

Habitat and Behaviour

  • Can generally be found in exposed soil or under objects outdoors
  • When found indoors, tends to nest in warmer environments near moisture
  • Will forage for food both day and night; prefers sweets (especially honeydew secretions), but will also feed on proteins and fats

Lifecycle

  • Exhibits complete metamorphosis (egg, larva, pupa, adult)
  • Can mate both inside and outside the nest
  • Swarms (of reproductives) may occur anytime from spring to mid summer
  • Has multi-queen colonies
  • Development time, from egg to adult, is dependent on temperature, and can range anywhere between 34 and 83 days