Moisture ants
categories: Fact Sheet Wood Destroying Pests
revision date: 2025-12-31 01:00
Photo by: Sharon Collman
Biology
Moisture ants are small ants (about 2/16 – 3/16 in length as workers). Color varies, but light yellowish-brown is the most common.
They are largely nuisance pests in that they find their way into kitchens and feed on sweet materials including honeydew from aphids. They nest in damp rotting wood or in the soil. They do not nest in dry sound wood.
They are actually an indicator of a prior problem, for example, wood-soil contact which sets up the ideal habitat for nesting. Mating swarms occur in late summer to early fall.
Management Options
See "Using Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in the Landscape" for successful pest management techniques.
Non-chemical Management
Select non-chemical management options as your first choice!
- Prevent conditions conducive to infestations such as wet wood.
- Avoid wood-soil contact.
- Ensure good ventilation in crawl space (be sure a vapor barrier is in place).
- Do not place woodpiles next to house.
- Fix plumbing leaks.
Chemical Management
IMPORTANT: For more information on using pesticides, visit Home and Garden Fact Sheets | Pesticide Resources and Education Program | Washington State University.
- None recommended.
- If you have a moisture ant colony or problem contact a pest management professional.
WSU Extension programs and employment are available to all without discrimination.
Evidence of noncompliance may be reported through your local Extension office.