SCHEDULE CONSULTATION

For convenience and immediate attention, call

1.800.800.ORKIN or fill out the form below.

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

Pharaoh Ant (Monomorium pharaonis)

Pharaoh Ant

Identification

  • Is frequently found in large apartment complexes, food manufacturing facilities, grocery stores, and hospitals
  • Queens are approximately 4 mm in length; the other members range between 1.5 and 2 mm
  • Workers are pale yellowish in colour with a darker abdomen
  • Has 12-segmented antennae, with 3-segmented clubs
  • Thorax is evenly rounded
  • Is two-noded (i.e. 2 segments attach the abdomen to the thorax)
  • Has a stinger

Habitat and Behaviour

  • Can go undetected for long periods of time due to its minute size and cryptic behaviour
  • Is of particular importance in hospital settings where it can enter IV bottles and even the wounds of patients as it seeks moisture
  • Can be associated with disease transmission in hospital setting
  • Is always on the move, making treatment a challenge
  • Prefers nesting indoors in the Canadian climate
  • Will forage for food both day and night
  • Is omnivorous—will feed on protein, fat, or carbohydrates

Lifecycle

  • Exhibits complete metamorphosis (egg, larva, pupa, adult)
  • Colonies can rapidly expand by ”budding” and mating within the nest
  • Colonies can contain multiple queens and several thousand workers
  • Development time, from egg to adult, is approximately 38 days