Elongated Twig Ants: Friend or Foe?

The twig ants can be found in almost all the states of America and is the problem for the countryside houses in the USA. In this blog we will help you find out all about elongated twig ants. Starting with their appearance and ending with the prevention and control measures.

What Are Twig Ants?

Twig ants is a special species of ants, known as Pseudomyrmex gracilis, scientifically. These are found in Mexico, particularly Florida, Texas, and Hawaii. They are often referred to as elongated twig ants or “Mexican twig ants“. Usually, they are found in warm climates and nest in trees, dead twigs, or dry plant material.

Twig Ants can help in the fight against other pest insects. Although their painful stings are the reason for which they are not accepted by people, homes, and gardens as such.

Appearance of Elongated Twig Ants

Elongated twig ant has some characteristics that set it apart from other insects of its kind:

These ants are longer than the rest of the ants and you can easily see the difference if you compare the sizes of 8-10 millimeters with 5/16 and 2/5 inches. Their bodies are long, thin, and wasp-like, with big, oval eyes and long legs and feelers.

The stem ants are of different colors. Mostly they are two-colored: the dark part covers the head and the abdomen while the part of the body such as the thorax, antennae, and legs are colored in a burnt orange or red-brown shade. Such a pattern helps these ants to stay hidden among the greenery and give an impression of the stem themselves.

Twig ants do not simply stay in one place when they are disturbed. They exhibit a kind of behavior similar to darting, and the ants reposition their nests if they are repetitively disturbed.

How to Get Rid of Twig Ants?

The most effective ways to deal with elongated twig ants can be-

• Seal all the Entries: Check the house for any cracks or holes where ants might enter and seal them with caulk.
• Remove Nesting Material: Cut and trim trees and shrubs and gather up the dead twigs and plant debris.
• Bait Stations: You will have to put on the entrance to the colony at the corners of the house, so that the ants are attracted to and then go and get the bait. Keep in mind. The worker ants will transport the bait to the colony, thus erasing the ants through this gradual process.
• Hire a professional: An infestation of such aggressive pest requires quick, thorough control. If the infestation is severe or the nests are too high and hard to reach for the layman, one practical solution is to find an expert who is experienced in handling such issues. The latter knows what precaution areas are, has the means, and is in a better position to win the battle against twig ants while not causing any harm to the children or beneficial insects.

Ways to Prevent Infestation of Elongated Twig Ants

Below are a few steps through which you can safeguard your dwelling and garden:

1. Regular Yard Maintenance: Regularly cut grass, bushes, and tree branches and make sure they are not near your house. Tall grass and  bushes are easy sources and the best places for elongated twig ants to hide.
2. Get Rid of the Source of Food: Keep food in plastic containers, wash away crumbs, and spills immediately, and pet food should also be kept away from the floor.
3. Inspect plants regularly: Check the plants and outdoor furniture for signs of twig ants before taking them inside.
4. Create Sticky Barriers: Wrap the tree trunks and plant stems with sticky substances like Tanglefoot to prevent ant climbing.
5. Secure Home Exteriors: Review and then seal any cracks or gaps in your household’s windows, and doors. This will make it impossible for ants to enter your home.
6. Maintain Good Sanitation in your Kitchen: Keep the kitchen and dining areas clean to get rid of anything that could attract pests.

Conclusion

Among ants, twig ants, particularly the elongated twig ant are highly interesting. Besides the wasp-like form and horrible sting, which make them pretty troublesome, they also play a vital role in gardens by eliminating other pests. If stung by the twig ant, apply appropriate first aid and be on the lookout for any signs of allergies. By staying alert and giving these insects proper care, you can have a pest-free, safe and ecological home. Be proactive and let your information about twig ants be your shield that will maintain a safe environment for your family.