Tawny Crazy Ants

Stephanie K. Larrick Hill, Stephanie K. Larrick Hill, Jodi Scott, Dawn Calibeo, andR. W. Baldwin

This document, titled "Tawny Crazy Ant-Vaders," introduces the tawny crazy ant, detailing its behavior, habitat, and impact on agricultural and horticultural enterprises. The publication serves as an educational resource, including a coloring book to engage readers. The document aims to raise awareness about this invasive species and provide information on managing its spread. Original publication date June 2013. 

Faith M. Oi, Dawn Calibeo, John Paige III, andMichael Bentley

A UF/IFAS numbered publication. in support of UF/IFAS Extension program: Integrated Pest Management

Stephanie K. Larrick Hill, P. G. Koehler, R. M. Pereira, Stephanie K. Larrick Hill, R. W. Baldwin, Roberto M. Pereira, andPhilip G. Koehler

As of 2012, tawny crazy ants have invaded 24 counties in Florida, parts of southeast Texas, and other areas of the southeastern U.S. The tawny crazy ant is considered a series pest. This species infests buildings and greenhouses, attacks crops, domestic animals, honeybee hives, displaces native ant species, and disrupts electrical equipment. This fact sheet covers the tawny crazy ant’s distribution, description, colonies, feeding habits, and pest status and control.

Shweta Sharma, John Warner, and Rudolph H. Scheffrahn

Nylanderia fulva is part of a group of ants referred to as “crazy ants” due to their quick and erratic movements. It has been reported from 27 counties of Florida and 27 counties of Texas, as well as from Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Georgia. Huge number of workers in infested areas can make human activities uncomfortable and difficult. They can infest sidewalks, buildings and gardens, and damage phone lines, air conditioning units and computers. They have killed honey bee larvae and used the hives as their nests, and are even displacing red imported fire ants where the two populations overlap in Texas.