HOT SHOT® BRAND’S ANTS 101

Ants 101
Ants 101
Whether they’re marching one by one or two by two, ants can invade kitchens and other parts of your home quickly. Despite their small size and stature, ants are very smart, capable of dividing and conquering to secure sweets and other left-out foods. There are more than 10,000 known species of ants – but for now, we’re going to focus on basic ant facts to give you an edge over these pesky pests.
Ants Have Super Strength
Ants Have Super Strength

Ants Have Super Strength

An average ant can lift more than 20 times its body weight. While ants don’t weigh all that much to begin with, this strength helps them to lift things like potato chips and other tasty treats.
Ants Are Employed
Ants Are Employed

Ants Are Employed

Every ant in a colony has a job. Some are workers that build the colony, others hunt for food, and some even help with waste disposal. There’s never a dull moment in the life of an ant!
Ants Are Intelligent
Ants Are Intelligent

Ants Are Intelligent

Ants are known for their intelligence. Collectively, they're skilled navigators and problem solvers, and they adapt quickly to new situations.
Common Ant Varieties in the US
Common Ant Varieties in the US

Odorous House Ant

The most common species of ant in the United States, these little guys are a big pest in the kitchen. They scavenge for food in kitchens, waste baskets, and any corner of the home they can reach. Their favorite foods are sweets!

Fire Ant

Red-imported fire ants are distinguished by their fiery-red color. They’re more common in the southern half of the United States. Be careful – their bites can sting and leave some pretty nasty blisters!

Pavement Ant

This common urban pest is often found nesting under sidewalks, driveways and building foundations. Pavement ants will eat just about anything, from sugars to grease, so be sure to cover your food!

Pharaoh Ant

These ants love protein; meat, fats, and other dead insects are their favorites. They appear year-round and seek out humid climates. Interestingly enough, they’re most commonly found in hospitals.