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Pharaoh ants are the most-difficult ant species to eliminate in Florida. Their multi-queen colonies split when threatened, making each treatment potentially worse. Here is the bait-only protocol.
How to identify pharaoh ants
- Tiny — 1/16 inch long.
- Yellow to light brown color.
- Often confused with thief ants and ghost ants.
- Common in hospitals, kitchens, and apartment buildings.
Why they are unique
Pharaoh ant colonies “bud” into multiple new colonies when stressed. Spraying with insecticide makes the problem dramatically worse — one colony becomes ten. Bait-only treatment is mandatory.
Treatment protocol
Step 1: NEVER spray insecticide
This rule is absolute for pharaoh ants. No Bifen IT, no Raid, no Ortho. Spraying causes colony budding.
Step 2: Place protein-based bait
Pharaoh ants prefer protein baits over sweet baits (unlike most ants). Use Maxforce Granular Bait or similar protein-formulated product.
Step 3: Multiple bait stations
Place 12+ bait stations around exterior and interior trail entry points.
Step 4: Persist for 8-12 weeks
Pharaoh ant elimination takes longer than other ant species. Stay consistent with baiting.
Verdict
For pharaoh ants, bait-only treatment is mandatory. Never spray. Be patient — full elimination takes 8-12 weeks. If DIY fails, hire a professional with experience in pharaoh ant elimination.
Reminder: Always read product labels and follow safety instructions.