Pest ID Learn about the pests that impact homes and businesses across Central Massachusetts.

Worcester Protect Your Home from Pharaoh Ant Problems

Think You Might Have Pharaoh Ants in Your Home?

The name pharaoh was given to this little ant under the false belief that it had been responsible for one of the plagues of Egypt during the reign of the pharaohs.

Pharaoh ants are amongst the smallest ants; workers are around 1/16-inch long. Their color varies from yellow to reddish, with a slightly darker abdomen. They are a 2-node ant. Pharaoh ant colonies are large, reaching up to as many as 300,000 individuals and several queens. Queens are about 1/8 inch in length and are darker in color than the workers; they may or may not have wings. Unlike most ants, they breed continuously throughout the year. This ant prefers a warm, humid environment. Nests can be found in wall voids, under floorboards, in furniture, behind baseboards and window moldings, behind appliances, boxes, and expansion joints in slabs.

Pharaoh ants forage long distances and establish scent trails. They feed on a variety of foods, including sweets, greases, meats, fruits, and dead insects. Carbohydrates are the main requirement for workers; however, queens and larvae require larger amounts of protein for egg production and development.

Managing Pharaoh Ant Infestations in Your Home

Pharaoh ants in Massachusetts are a significant problem in homes due to their small size and the considerable risks they pose. These pests contaminate food and surfaces with harmful bacteria and are difficult to eradicate due to their ability to enter tiny spaces. They are known for creating multiple nests within structures, leading to widespread infestations that quickly escalate. Their adaptability and resistance to some insecticides make them challenging to remove. Additionally, they are known for damaging electrical devices by nesting inside, causing short circuits and malfunctions.

Effective management of pharaoh ants includes preventive measures like sealing gaps, storing food in insect-proof containers, fixing leaks, cleaning spills promptly, and disposing of garbage regularly. For existing infestations, professional pest control services specializing in pharaoh ant extermination are recommended.

Getting Rid of Pharaoh Ants in Your House

Ants will be found near moisture and food sources, so eliminating available food and water will help discourage ants. Only about 5% of a pharaoh ant colony’s workers are out foraging for food at any one time. These ants are very sensitive to cleaning products and pesticides and will split the colony to move away from danger (called budding). Multiple visits may be needed, as we cannot spray; spray will cause these ants to bud off. We have to bait these ants to be effective.

Central Mass Trusts Us. See Why.

C
Robert was wonderful!
"Robert was wonderful explaining as he checked the bait traps. He was courteous and neat."

CONNIE AYLES
10/20/26
E
Expedient, thorough, and honest pricing
"We really appreciated his honesty in reducing our final charge since the job turned out to be less involved than originally assumed."

Evan Graber
10/17/26
K
Matt was awesome!
"Matt was awesome. He answered my questions, was very patient, and I learned a lot from him!"

Kathleen Hebert
10/17/26
J
He is welcome to do our service anytime!
"Matt was great. He kept me informed of his arrival time and went through our interior and exterior like an expert."

Jayne McGinn
10/15/26
A
Very thorough and knowledgeable!
"Kevin was a wonderful tech! He did a great job explaining everything to me and showing me where we had rodent activity."

Amy Hadley
10/13/26
P
Thorough job with mouse bait traps!
"Ben did a very thorough job of house inspection and restocking/new mouse bait traps throughout the house."

Patrick Pizzimenti
10/12/26
R
Thorough inspection, no sales pitch
"I didn't feel like I was getting a sales pitch, just a good inspection of my property."

Rich Day
10/08/26
p
Five Stars!
"Kevin, the service technician, was thoroughly professional and friendly. Five Stars!"

paul knaplund
10/08/26
p
Keeping my house pest free for 6 years
"They have done a great job keeping my house pest free."

paul knaplund
10/07/26

View All Reviews

Talk with Ford's Hometown Services Today

Call (774) 418-4908 or send the form and we will help you sort out pests, wildlife, or lawn concerns with a plan that fits your property. At Ford's Hometown Services, we treat your home or business with the care we use for our own.

First Name
Last Name
Phone
Email
Address
Are you a new customer?
How can we help you?
By submitting, you agree to be contacted about your request & other information using automated technology. Message frequency varies. Msg & data rates may apply. Text STOP to cancel. Acceptable Use Policy

Local Care Backed by 85+ Years of Doing the Right Thing

Voted the Area's Top Choice for Pest Control

We were voted the #1 pest control company in Central Massachusetts in 2024, something we achieved by putting people first and providing lasting results.
85+ Years Of Know-How

With us, you get practical, tailor-made solutions that are backed by over eight decades of industry experience.
Cleaner Visits, Every Time

We follow a four-step cleanliness process to keep homes and businesses neat and tidy, all while delivering effective pest control and lawn care.
Comprehensive Care, One Team

We're your one-stop shop for complete pest and wildlife control and lawn care, all under one roof.

Stay Ahead of Pests

Explore tips, local advice, and real answers from our Worcester team to help you protect your home, family, and property all year long.

Visit Our Blog