The acrobat ant family includes several species. These ants are named for the
curious acrobatic feat they perform - raising their abdomen
up over their head almost like a scorpion, which becomes more
apparent when they are alarmed. Acrobat ants are small, around
an eighth-inch long and range in color from yellow-brown to
dark brown. A stinger is present on these ants, but can be
hard to see. A key characteristic to look for is their heart-shaped
abdomen, which attaches at the top to the waist. (see picture)
Making their home both indoors and out, they usually build
their nests in decaying wood. So sometimes a sawdust like
material can be present around their nest. They have also
been known to nest in various types of foam and insulation,
but no matter where they nest they still need food. Trails
of worker ants can be seen going between the nest and a various
types of food sources, such as sweet or greasy substances.
Keep an eye out for swarmers (ants with wings) as these can
be an early warning sign of an infestation.