Ant Species Guide

Acrobat Ant

Identification, Biology & Control
Scientific name: Crematogaster spp.

Acrobat ants are small ants recognized by their distinctive heart-shaped abdomen. When disturbed, workers may raise their abdomen above their body. They commonly nest in trees, wood, wall voids, and other protected locations.

Acrobat ant
Acrobat Ant Crematogaster spp.

Quick Facts

Size
1/16" – 1/8"
2–3 mm
Color
Light brown
to black
Shape
Heart-shaped
abdomen
Habitat
Trees, wood
and structures
Diet
Honeydew
and insects
Risk
Nuisance pest
inside buildings

How to Identify Acrobat Ants

Acrobat ants are recognizable by their heart-shaped abdomen, particularly when viewed from above. Workers may raise their abdomen when alarmed.

  • Approximately 1/16" to 1/8" long
  • Light brown to black in color
  • Distinct heart-shaped abdomen
  • One pair of spines on the thorax
  • May raise the abdomen when disturbed

Where They Nest

Outdoor nesting area

Outdoor Nesting Areas

Common nesting areas include trees, logs, firewood, stones, dead wood, and abandoned insect galleries.

Indoor nesting area

Indoor Nesting Areas

Indoors they may establish colonies in wall voids, insulation, structural timber, and moisture-damaged areas.

Signs of an Infestation

Ant Trails

Workers travelling repeatedly along walls, trees, windows, or structural edges.

Nests in Wood

Activity around damp wood, wall voids, trees, or structural timber.

Honeydew Activity

Workers may be seen around aphids and other plant-feeding insects.

Defensive Behavior

Workers can bite and may produce an unpleasant odor when disturbed.

Need help with ants on your property?

Tell us about the problem and our team can help determine the best next step.

Prevention & Control

1

Eliminate Moisture

Repair leaks and reduce moisture around roofs, kitchens, bathrooms, soffits, and timber.

2

Seal Entry Points

Seal gaps around doors, windows, utility penetrations, exterior walls, and structural openings.

3

Locate & Treat Nests

Professional treatment may target wall voids, timber, roof spaces, or other concealed nesting areas.

4

Monitor Activity

Continue monitoring trails, nesting locations, and structural conditions after treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this pest, its habits, nesting behavior, and control.

Are acrobat ants harmful?

They are primarily considered nuisance pests, although workers can bite when disturbed.

Where do acrobat ants typically nest?

Colonies may be found in trees, damaged wood, wall voids, insulation, roof spaces, and other protected areas.

Why are acrobat ants entering my property?

They may enter in search of food, moisture, or suitable nesting locations.

How can acrobat ants be controlled?

Effective control normally involves locating colonies, correcting moisture problems, sealing access points, and treating nesting areas where appropriate.

How Would You Like to Get Your Free Quote?

Choose whichever is more convenient for you.

💬 Get a Quick Quote

Message our team directly on Messenger for a quick assessment.

  • Send photos of the termite problem
  • Ask questions directly
  • Get an initial assessment
  Message Us on Messenger

Recommended for faster response.

📝 Request a Free Quote

Send us your property details and our team will contact you.

⚡ Fast response — we'll get back to you as soon as possible.

We'll use your details only to respond to your inquiry.

Don't Let Pests Become a Bigger Problem.

Early inspection can help identify pest activity before the infestation becomes more serious.