What are the tiny ants in my kitchen?
Grease ant is a name commonly used for one of the smallest ants found in homes in Iowa. These ants are technically known as thief ants. They are very small; only 1 to 1.5 mm (1/16th inch) long. They are smooth and shiny and may be yellow to light or dark brown. Though they will eat almost anything, these ants prefer to eat grease, fats and meats. Grease ants form a trail from the food to the nest and the moving columns of ants can be noticed upon careful inspection. Most available ant baits must be mixed with a grease or oil (vegetable, corn, fish) to make them attractive to grease ants. Start with a 1:1 mixture and see if the ants are attracted to the bait, if not try more oil, or a different kind of oil. Once mixed, the bait can be placed on small squares of paper or the non-sticky side of masking tape strips. Use baits with care. Make sure the bait is out of the reach of children and pets. When ant activity has ceased, carefully dispose of the remaining bait.
