Appearance:
Big-headed ants are light brown to dark reddish brown in color. They have two different size workers: major workers heads are very large in proportion to their bodies. The minor workers do not have large heads.

Size:
Range from 1/16-inch to 1/8-inch in length.

Behavior:
Big-headed ants tend to nest in soil in protected areas like under rocks, logs, firewood, patio blocks, landscape debris and more. The ants will also nest in open areas. They trail readily, but usually not far from their nest. Big-headed ants will construct mud tubes on foundations, similar to subterranean termites tunnels.

Habitat:
Big-headed ants form colonies that can number in the tens of thousands. Like Argentine ants, they often form mega-colonies with multiple queens with many sub-colonies. These “supercolonies” can be spread out and difficult to control. Their diet consists of live and dead insects, and they are partial to the honeydew from aphids and similar insects. They tend to feed indoors on meats and grease, sweets, and high-protein foods, and can also get into pet foods.

Unique Characteristics:
Big-headed ants get their name because of the major workers’ disproportionately large head; minor workers and fire ants have similar habits and are often confused for one another.