Citronella Ant Overview & Quick Facts
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A Closer Look at Citronella Ants
Citronella ants may not be the most well-known ant species, but they’re definitely one of the most aromatic. When crushed, these ants give off a distinct lemon or citrus-like scent, which is how they earned their name. Though often mistaken for termites, citronella ants are mostly nuisance pests — not harmful but definitely surprising when they show up inside.
🔍 What Do Citronella Ants Look Like?
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Color: Yellow to yellowish-brown
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Size:
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Workers: About 3–4 mm (1/8 inch)
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Winged swarmers (reproductives): Larger, up to 7 mm, often mistaken for termites
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Body:
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Rounded thorax
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One-segmented waist
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No sting, but they emit a citrusy odor when crushed
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🏠 Where Do They Live?
Citronella ants nest:
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Underground, often in moist soil near foundations, patios, or porches
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Under logs, stones, or landscaping materials
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Occasionally inside homes (especially basements or crawlspaces) when swarming or seeking moisture
They’re not typically indoor ants, but can accidentally end up inside when conditions are right.
🌧️ When Are They Most Active?
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Most visible during swarming season (late summer through fall), when winged reproductives emerge to mate
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Homeowners often see these swarmers indoors and mistake them for termites
🍽️ What Do Citronella Ants Eat?
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Primary diet: Honeydew from aphids and mealybugs
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Do not usually scavenge for food in homes
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Mostly stay outdoors, unless moisture attracts them inside
⚠️ Are They Dangerous?
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❌ Do not sting or bite
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❌ Don’t damage wood or structures
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✅ Can be a nuisance if swarming indoors
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✅ Their presence may indicate moisture problems in or around your home
🧠 Fun Fact!
Crush a citronella ant and you’ll know it! Their citrus-like scent is caused by defensive compounds released from their bodies — a natural alarm signal to other ants in the colony.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Citronella Ants
What are Citronella ants?
Citronella ants are a non-aggressive, subterranean ant species known for producing a lemon or citrus-like smell when crushed — which is how they got their name. They’re often mistaken for termites during swarm season.
What do Citronella ants look like?
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Color: Yellow to yellowish-brown
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Workers: Small, about 1/8 inch (3–4 mm)
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Winged reproductives (swarmers): Larger, up to 7 mm
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No sting or bite, but emit a distinct citronella odor
Where do they live?
Citronella ants build nests:
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Underground, especially in moist soil near foundations, porches, patios
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Under stones, logs, mulch, or landscape timbers
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Occasionally indoors, particularly in basements or crawlspaces with moisture
Are Citronella ants dangerous?
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No. They don’t sting, bite, or cause structural damage
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Their presence can indicate excess moisture issues
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Winged ants may swarm indoors, which can be alarming but harmless
Why do they smell like lemon?
When crushed or disturbed, citronella ants release a citrusy odor as a defensive chemical to warn other ants. It’s not harmful, but it’s very noticeable.
What do Citronella ants eat?
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They feed almost exclusively on honeydew, a sugary substance produced by aphids and other plant pests
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They do not typically seek food indoors, unlike many other ants
When are Citronella ants most active?
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They are most noticeable during swarming season, typically in late summer through fall
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This is when winged reproductives emerge to start new colonies
How do I know if I have a Citronella ant problem?
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You may see yellow ants swarming indoors, especially near windows or basements
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Crushed ants may release a strong lemon smell
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You might spot soil piles near foundations or patio edges
How do I get rid of Citronella ants?
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Reduce moisture around your foundation and basement
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Seal cracks and gaps in foundation walls and around doors/windows
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Address aphid infestations in your landscaping
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For persistent problems, call a licensed pest control professional
Struggling with ants in your home or yard? Whether it's fire ants, carpenter ants, ghost ants, or any other species, Hannan Environmental Services offers expert ant control and prevention throughout South Florida. Our trained technicians provide safe, effective, and long-lasting solutions to keep your home pest-free. Contact us today for reliable service you can trust! Feel free to also reach out to Hannan Environmental Services on Facebook!