The Most Common Ants to Know About in Iowa

Ant infestations are one of the biggest pest problems homeowners in Iowa face. Whether they invade kitchens, weaken wooden structures, or create unsightly mounds in yards, different types of ants can cause headaches year-round. Some species are just a nuisance, while others can do real damage.

Knowing which ant species are most common in Des Moines and surrounding areas will help you recognize potential problems and take steps toward effective ant control.

Key Takeaways

• Iowa homes and yards often have different ant species, with some causing damage and others invading kitchens for food.
• Carpenter ants weaken wood, pavement ants live in cracks, odorous house ants smell bad, and pharaoh ants spread bacteria.
• Thief ants steal food, field ants bite, citronella ants mean moisture problems, and sugar ants stay active in cool weather.
• Professional pest control removes ants by finding their nests, using proven treatments, and preventing future infestations.

Carpenter Ants

Carpenter ants are one of the most destructive ant species in Iowa. Unlike termites, they don’t eat wood, but they tunnel through it to create nesting galleries. Over time, this can weaken wooden beams, leading to costly repairs.

The black carpenter ant is the most common in the Midwest. These ants are dark brown or black, have a well-defined thorax, and can grow up to ½ inch long.

If you notice swarms of winged ants in your home during spring, it could indicate an established colony nearby.

Pavement Ants

Pavement ants are small, dark brown ants that build nests in cracks in sidewalks, driveways, and foundations. These ants are highly competitive and often battle with other colonies, leading to noticeable swarms in the summer.

While they prefer to stay outdoors, they will invade homes in search of food, particularly sugar and grease.

Odorous House Ants

Odorous house ants are one of the most common ants in Iowa homes. They get their name from the strong, rotten coconut-like smell they produce when crushed.

These ants are small, dark brown to black, and have an irregularly shaped thorax when viewed from the side. They prefer sugary foods and often infest pantries, sinks, and countertops.

Pharaoh Ants

Pharaoh ants are a major indoor pest, particularly in multi-unit housing, hospitals, and nursing homes. These tiny, light-yellow ants are known for spreading bacteria as they forage for food.

Unlike other common ants, pharaoh ants don’t rely on a single nest. Instead, they form interconnected ant colonies, making them difficult to eliminate.

If their nests are disturbed, they quickly scatter and establish new colonies elsewhere, so professional pest control is the best approach for long-term management.

Thief Ants

Thief ants, also called grease ants, are among the smallest ant species in Iowa.

They nest near other ant colonies and steal their food and larvae, hence their name. They prefer protein-rich foods like meats, dairy, and oily snacks.

Because of their tiny size, thief ants can slip through the smallest cracks and invade homes unnoticed.

Field Ants

Field ants are large, aggressive ants commonly found in open areas like yards, gardens, and pastures. They vary in color, with some species being red, black, yellow, or a mix.

Unlike carpenter ants, they don’t damage wood, but their mounds can be an eyesore and interfere with lawn care. They have strong mandibles and can bite when disturbed.

Some homeowners may mistake field ants for fire ants due to their reddish color and painful bites. However, true fire ants are not established in Iowa, as they prefer warmer climates.

Citronella Ants

Citronella ants, also known as yellow ants, are mostly harmless, but their sudden swarms inside homes can be alarming.

These ants are golden yellow and release a citrus-like smell when crushed. They primarily live underground, feeding on honeydew produced by root aphids.

While they don’t cause damage, their presence can indicate excessive moisture in basements or crawl spaces.

Sugar Ants

Sugar ants are a broad term used for various ant species that are attracted to sweets, but in Iowa, the "false honey ant," is one of the most common.

These ants are active in cooler temperatures, often foraging during late fall and early spring when other ants are dormant.

Their colonies can persist for years, and because they store food reserves, they can be difficult to control once established.

Get Rid of Ants in Your Iowa Home for Good

Dealing with an ant infestation? We know how frustrating it can be. 

At Miller Pest & Termite, we don’t just get rid of ants—we make sure they don’t come back. Our expert exterminators will identify the species, locate nesting sites, and use proven treatments to eliminate the infestation at the source. We also provide long-term prevention solutions to keep your home ant-free.

Don’t wait for the problem to get worse. Call us today and take back your home from unwanted pests!