Wild and Crazy Ants
I’ve touched on many ants so far but this one is a little different. These ants have earned their name for the erratic way they move. Instead of marching in a line like most organized ants, crazy ants move in a well, crazy pattern. These ants are reddish-brown and about 2 – 3 mm long. Their antennae have 12 segments without a club, and their antennae are elongated. These ant’s legs are extremely long and give it a very distinct appearance. Crazy ant workers are omnivorous, feeding on both dead and live insects; honeydew produced from insects, fruits, plant secretions, seeds and a variety of household food items. Like us, they have a taste for sugar — and electronics — as they like to nest in circuits and wires to keep warm. As you person described it, “It’s like thousands of ants will crawl over heaps of dead ants and it’ll make you itchy just reading it. Crazy ants are versatile, living in both moist and dry habitats. They nest in rotten wood, soil, cavities of trees and plants, trash and under rocks and buildings. So keeping ants outside requires keeping areas clean by wiping counters and floors and making sure there aren’t any leftovers. Don’t let your pet’s food sit out and clean up after your dog or cat eats.
