What are ants attracted to?

Ants keep on coming into areas in the house I wouldn’t expect them to—what are ants attracted to?

Ants are primarily attracted to food, water, and shelter. They are resourceful pests that can find their way into your home through the smallest cracks and openings. Here's what brings them indoors:

Food sources

• Sugary substances—ants love sweet foods like honey, syrup, fruit juice, and soda spills.
• Greasy or protein-rich foods—crumbs from meat, cheese, pet food, and cooking oils can draw ants in.
• Unsealed pantry items—open containers of sugar, flour, cereal, and snacks are easy targets.
• Garbage and compost—food waste left in bins or compost piles attracts foraging ants.

Moisture and water

• Leaky pipes and faucets—ants need water to survive and are drawn to damp areas.
• Standing water—pet bowls, plant saucers, and clogged drains provide hydration.
• High humidity—bathrooms, kitchens, and basements with poor ventilation attract moisture-loving species.

Shelter and nesting sites

• Cracks and gaps—small openings in walls, foundations, doors, and windows allow ants to enter.
• Warm environments—ants seek indoor shelter during extreme weather.
• Clutter—piles of cardboard, paper, and stored items create ideal nesting spots.

Common questions

• Are ants attracted to mold? Ants aren't typically attracted to mold itself, but they may be drawn to the conditions that cause mold—namely, moisture and dampness. 

• Are ants attracted to water? Yes, ants are strongly attracted to water. Like all living creatures, ants need water to survive, and they'll seek it out wherever they can find it.

• Do ants eat meat? Yes, many ant species do eat meat. While some ants prefer sugary foods, others are omnivores and will feed on protein sources, including dead insects, meat scraps and grease, pet food, and dead animals.

• Do ants eat wood? No, ants do not eat wood. However, carpenter ants tunnel through wood to build their nests, which can cause significant structural damage over time. They prefer soft, moist, or rotting wood but can also infest sound wood if conditions are right.

Ants can quickly become a persistent problem if the conditions are right. By eliminating food sources, fixing leaks, sealing entry points, and reducing clutter, you can make your home less inviting to these pests. If you're dealing with an ant infestation, our team at Western Exterminator can help. Learn more about our ant control services or book a free inspection.