The Manhattan Ant Infestation in New York

New York City has a new invasive ant species to contend with, and it is unlike anything pest managers in the region have encountered before. Here is what residents, building managers, and facilities teams across NYC need to know about the ManhattAnt and why standard treatments are failing to stop it.

• Lasius emarginatus, commonly known as the ManhattAnt, arrived in New York City in 2011 and has since established itself as the second most prevalent ant species in the five boroughs
• Where most ant species are deterred by elevation, ManhattAnts are accomplished climbers that have been documented infesting apartments and commercial spaces well above the sixth floor of high-rise buildings
• Their foraging behavior sets them apart from native species, as ManhattAnts move with unusual speed across smooth vertical surfaces including polished concrete columns and steel building facades
• A direct ecological link exists between NYC street trees and indoor infestations, as ManhattAnts actively seek out the sugary honeydew secreted by tree pests living in urban landscaping directly outside buildings
• Repeated exposure to consumer-grade sprays has made this species highly resistant to the active ingredients found in most off-the-shelf ant treatments, rendering DIY approaches largely ineffective
• Reliably eliminating a ManhattAnt infestation requires professional slow-acting baits combined with a thorough structural exclusion program targeting the entry points this adaptable species exploits

What Is the Manhattan Ant?

As the second most common ant in New York, the Manhattan ant (Lasius emarginatus) is a species native to Europe and a relative newcomer to North America.

Dubbed the “ManhattAnt,” this species has shown a surprising aptitude for city life since its first observation by scientists in 2011. The ManhattAnt, characterized by its black head, abdomen, and a distinctive red thorax, is now a common sight, raising questions about its impact on local ecosystems and native species.

According to scientific studies, it has been seen on Long Island and New Jersey so far—but the authors suspect the ant could spread as far north as Maine and as far south as Georgia. These resilient insects have learned to thrive amidst concrete, steel, and dense human populations.

The Manhattan ant can become a significant nuisance, especially when it infiltrates apartments as high as the sixth floor. Their presence indicates potential entry points that need sealing and raises hygiene concerns, potentially devaluing properties and causing embarrassment.

Professional intervention is necessary to outmatch the Manhattan ant's adaptability. Pest control specialists like Assured Environments analyze the behavior of these ants, identifying their colonies and access points to apply more permanent and effective eradication methods.

What Does a Manhattan Ant Look Like?

Spotting a Manhattan ant infestation early on can save you a whole lot of trouble down the line. Here’s what to look out for:

• Size: Varies, but typically small—about 1/16 to ⅛ inches long
• Color: Ranges from light brown to black
• Body: Segmented bodies with antennae and sometimes wings

Manhattan ants can form large colonies—but even a few ants can signal a larger unseen infestation.

New York Ant Control Experts

Suddenly realizing that your ant problem might be too much to handle on your own? You’re not alone. Many New Yorkers find themselves outmatched and frustrated, seeking a reliable solution. DIY methods often fall short, leading to frustration and unresolved infestations. But tackling this issue doesn’t have to be a solo battle.

The Manhattan ant infestation is a complex issue, demanding a proactive, convenient, and expertly knowledgeable response. Assured Environments employs a tailored approach that combines industry-leading techniques with extensive local knowledge, ensuring efficient and safe eradication. By choosing Assured Environments, you’re aligning with a team well-versed in the unique pest challenges of Manhattan’s urban landscape.

Contact us today to take the first step towards reclaiming your haven from the Manhattan ant (or any ant infestation).