Rover Ant (Brachymyrmex species)

How to Identify Them

Workers are tiny and brown, with nine-segmented antennae (a detail you'll need magnification to see). They move slowly and somewhat erratically. Winged reproductives are often the first thing homeowners notice.

Common look-alikes:

• Ghost ant: pale see-through abdomen.
• Pharaoh ant: yellowish.
• White-footed ant: larger and black.

Signs of an Infestation

• Tiny brown ants in sinks, tubs and showers
• Swarms of tiny winged ants near windows or lights
• Ants around potted plants and planters
• Activity near leaks or damp cabinets

Prevention Tips

• Fix leaks and dry out damp areas.
• Keep mulch thin and away from the foundation.
• Seal gaps around plumbing and windows.
• Check potted plants for nests.

Rover Ants and Your Bathroom

Bathrooms are the room where homeowners most often notice rover ants. Small leaks under vanities, wet bath mats, damp grout and condensation around toilets give these ants the moisture they need. They often enter through the gap where plumbing comes up through the slab, which is hidden under the vanity or behind the toilet. Check for soft or stained cabinet bottoms, slow drips and caulk that has pulled away from the tub. Repairing these problems and keeping the room ventilated after showers reduces activity. It also helps us, because baits work best when ants don't have many other options nearby.

Telling Rover Ants Apart From Other Tiny Ants

Several tiny ants share our homes, and treatment differs. Rover ants are small and brown, move a bit slowly and are almost always near moisture. Ghost ants have a pale see-through abdomen. Pharaoh ants are yellowish. If you're not sure, save a few ants on clear tape and we'll identify them during your free inspection.

Rover ants are also common in condo and townhome bathrooms on lower floors, where slab gaps are close to irrigated landscaping.