Ants
Citronella Ant
A yellow ant named for the lemon-like smell it gives off when crushed. Most often noticed when winged ants swarm indoors from basements and foundations.
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Quick facts
- Size
- 4–5 mm
- Colour
- Yellow to light orange
- Active season
- Swarms mostly late summer and fall
- Where found
- Soil along foundations, under slabs, damp basements
How to Identify
- Yellow to orange-yellow body
- Lemon or citronella smell when crushed
- Winged ants often appear indoors in large numbers
Signs to Look For
- Swarms of winged yellow ants in basements or near foundations
- Small soil piles near cracks in basement floors or walls
- Workers rarely seen — they live mostly underground
Why It Matters
- Harmless to people and do not damage wood
- Indoor swarms are alarming and messy
- Can be mistaken for more damaging pests
Prevention Tips
- Seal cracks in basement floors and foundation walls
- Reduce moisture around foundations and improve grading
- Vacuum swarming ants — they die quickly indoors
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Carpenter Ant
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European Fire Ant
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Pavement Ant
Small, dark brown ants that nest under sidewalks, driveways and slabs, and often trail indoors looking for food.
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