Velvety Tree Ant

Velvety tree ants are a commonly misidentified species, typically confused for carpenter ants because of their wood excavation. Found along the coast from northern Mexico to southern Washington, these ants have not been studied as extensively as other ant species.

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Pest Description

Velvety Tree Ant Habits

Named for their appearance and habitat, velvety tree ants have abdomens that are covered in fine hairs. Commonly nesting in trees, not much is known about this specific species. Entomologists theorize, given their wide range of familiar nestmates, that velvety tree ants may be polydomous: that is, capable of sustaining and using multiple nests at a time. It is unclear whether each nest has only one queen or several.

These ants are known for their wood destruction, and they will carve out tunnels and nests in wood in a similar way to carpenter ants. They don’t eat wood, but are omnivorous. They eat a wide range of substances, including both protein and sugary substances.

Preventing and Eliminating Velvety Tree Ants

    The best prevention methods for velvety tree ants are the same common methods used to prevent other wood-destroying ants:

  • Fix leaks immediately, so they cannot dampen wood
  • Remove any damp wood immediately
  • Seal all utility pipe entrances or other entrances into the walls or home.
  • Commit to inspecting the exterior of your home four times a year. Professional inspections are a great way to make sure you’re protected.

In addition, removing dead stumps or trees around your property can go a long way toward preventing this particular species. Because they have multiple nests for a single colony, the highest priority should be to prevent even a single nest to develop.

Elimination may be more complicated. Once velvety tree ants are within your home’s walls, professionals will need to remove them. Fully removing these ants takes time, as all of the existing nests will have to be identified and removed. A licensed expert can determine the scope of the infestation and how best to proceed with removal. At Antworks, we use a variety of different treatment techniques, including wood injection and monitoring.