Ants prefer to nest in different areas depending on their species and environmental conditions. Some ants prefer to nest primarily outside, while other ants have discovered the benefits of setting up indoor satellite nests to expand their colony near food in an area that protects them from the outdoor elements.

Argentine ants nest in similar spots as the other species of ants in our area such as along sidewalks and building foundations, under logs or landscaping ties, or underneath wood or rock piles. Argentine ants nesting inside buildings typically choose spaces behind walls, large appliances, or under floors to build a nest.

Carpenter ants create their main nest outside inside things like decaying tree roots, tree stumps, fallen trees, logs, or wooden construction debris. Moisture and food often attract these ants indoors, where they will create a satellite nest. Inside our structures, they nest in structural wood found near water pipes, around doors and windows, below the ceilings, and behind tubs or sinks.

Little black ants are common in wooded areas and our yards. The soil found under rocks, logs, landscaping ties, or lumber piles are common outdoor nesting sites. Inside, they create nests behind wall voids, masonry walls, and behind door or window trim.

Pavement ants often nest outdoors very near homes and other structures. They create nesting sites in the soil around the cracks in sidewalks, driveways, foundations, and rock walls. Indoor nesting sites are usually behind walls, inside insulation, under floors, or in masonry walls.