Velvety tree ant (Liometopum spp.)

The world of ants can be interesting. I am seeing an increase of number of observations of the Velvety tree Ant. I think this increase is a two fold situation from a growing population of these ants and early mis-diagnosis.

The Velvety Tree Ant shares two characteristics with another common ant also found in homes, the Odorous House Ant. The two ants are similar in size (small), the Velvety Tree ant being around 1/8 to 1/4 inch in size (Polymorphic)  and the Odorous House Ant being about 1/8 inch (Monomorphic). When viewing casually they appear to be the same and due to this the Velvety Tree Ant has most likely been misdiagnosed as the Odorous House Ant.

The Velvety Tree Ant may also be mistaken for Carpenter Ants due to being polymorphic and having some behavioral characteristics similar to the Carpenter Ant, though typically their size is much smaller than that of the Carpenter ant.

It has been my observation on the Eastern flank of of the Cascades Mountains that the Velvety Tree Ant likes the Ponderosa Pines in my area. The Pest Management groups also state that they like to nests in pine, alder, elm and oak trees and in dead wood such as old tree limbs, stumps, and logs.

Their colony may have many queens and have numerous nest sites. They will form trails into buildings and often will head up high towards attic spaces and upper levels of the home. They primarily feed on honeydew and other insects.

They also seem to have a fondness for foam. I have seen them mine foam insulation on several occasions. Another observation I have made is that when disturbed the ant will take on a bit of a defensive posture raising it abdomen and head to make itself look larger.

The Velvety Tree Ant gets its name from the fine hairs on their abdomen that will glisten in light.

The ant is has a brownish-black and red t in color along with their velvety black abdomen.


 

“Major concern: Velvety tree ants are considered nuisance pests because of their large numbers infesting structures and foraging on foods in the household. In addition, these ants infest wood and are considered wood-destroying organisms.”

Like several of the other ants Velvety Tree Ants tend to forage during the day in the spring and early summer.  Then as it  gets warmer start foraging during the evenings, which often when Carpenter ants will forage also.

As with many pest around the home eliminating conditions that are conducive to their infestation is beginning of a proper pest management plan. Eliminating any wood that is in contact with earth (soil/rock/garden bedding), careful use of landscape timbers and removal of wood debris by the home.

If an infestation is occurring along with good yard maintenance a chemical control is most likely necessary. Hiring a well informed pest control operator which is familiar with these insects is recommended.

“If you think it's expensive to hire a professional to do the job, wait until you hire an amateur.”

Red Adair

If you find any errors or have additional information that would expand on any code, building standards or manufacturer requirements please let me know.

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