The Bigheaded Ant is considered a tramp species that has adapted very well in Florida-in fact it is displacing many other species of ants, especially the Imported Fire Ant and the White-footed Ant. It has become a difficult pest to control in structures. It is sometimes confused with termites because it can make a foraging tube in the soil. The name comes from the soldier, which has an unusually large head. It is found throughout southern Florida, and is working its way into the central and northern portions of the state. They will go after honeydew, dead insects, worms, caterpillars, seeds, grease, peanut butter, meat, juices, and pet food.
There are usually numerous colonies in a relatively small area, but there are only a few hundred ants in each colony. The nests are made in soil under rocks, wood, blocks, leaf debris-just about anything that provides protection.

Life Cycle:

There can be multiple queens in a colony, and both minor workers and soldiers (major workers). Queens can lay a few hundred eggs each month. Eggs take 2-4 weeks to hatch into larvae, which go another 3-4 weeks to become pupae. The pupae take 10-20 days to become adults. Swarming takes place in the winter and spring. The Bigheaded Ant only has a life span of one to 2 1/2 months.

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