Wildlife Spotlight: Acrobat Ants
What DFW homeowners need to know about these tiny but tricky pests
If you’ve seen small ants raising their back end high in the air when disturbed, you’ve probably come across acrobat ants. These quick-moving ants are common throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth area and are often mistaken for termites or carpenter ants. While they aren’t the most dangerous pests, they can definitely become a problem if they find a way inside.
Here’s what to watch for and how to keep them out of your home.
What are Acrobat Ants?
Acrobat ants get their name from the way they lift their abdomen over their head when they feel threatened. They are small, usually around one-eighth of an inch long, and range in color from light brown to black. One of their most noticeable features is their heart-shaped rear segment.
They often trail along baseboards, fences, or trees, and they can be aggressive if their nest is disturbed. Their movements are fast and unpredictable, which makes them stand out from other ants you might see.
Where Do They Nest?
Outdoors, acrobat ants prefer to build nests in moist or decaying wood, such as:
Tree stumps
Logs or firewood
Leaf piles
Under rocks or loose bark
Indoors, they can be found in wall voids, insulation, and any areas with moisture or wood damage. One of the most common places we find them is inside old termite or carpenter ant galleries. They don’t create these spaces themselves, but they move in once another pest has left. That’s why people sometimes think their termite problem has returned when it’s actually acrobat ants taking over.
Acrobat Ants vs. Termites
This is one of the most common mix-ups we see. If you see insects swarming or coming out of a wall, it’s easy to assume the worst. Termites and acrobat ants can live in the same areas, but they act very differently.
Termites are slow and hidden. They actively chew through wood and can cause serious structural damage. Acrobat ants, on the other hand, are visible and fast. They don’t damage wood but take advantage of places that are already compromised.
If you’re not sure which one you’re seeing, we recommend a professional inspection. It’s better to know for sure than to guess.
Are Acrobat Ants Harmful?
They aren’t dangerous, but they’re definitely a nuisance. While they don’t sting, they can bite. Some species release a strong odor when crushed, which is unpleasant inside the home. They also tend to show up where you don’t want them, like:
Kitchens, looking for sweets or protein
Wall voids or attics with moisture problems
Damaged areas that already have wood rot or leaks
Areas where other pests have been in the past
If they find what they’re looking for, they’ll stick around.
Tips to Prevent Acrobat Ants
Keeping acrobat ants out comes down to cutting off access and removing attractants. Here are a few easy ways to start:
Seal cracks and gaps around doors, windows, and utility lines
Store firewood away from the side of your house
Repair water leaks and replace moisture-damaged wood
Keep tree limbs and shrubs trimmed so they don’t touch your roof or siding
Stay consistent with regular pest control service
When to Call in Help
If you’re seeing ants and aren’t sure what kind they are, or if you’re dealing with repeat indoor activity, it’s time to schedule an inspection. Our team is trained to tell the difference between acrobat ants, termites, and other pests that might be hiding in your walls. We’ll let you know exactly what’s going on and what it will take to fix it.
Call us at 972-435-9797 or visit paragonpestdfw.com to set up your free inspection.