The pungent, rotten coconut-like odor given off when this ant is crushed gives it its name. It is probably the most common pest ant that Guardian deals with.
It is a small ant 1/16 to 1/8 inch long. The body is brown to black.
Colonies consist of several hundred to ten thousand ants. Since different colonies are not hostile to each other they often move along trails from colony to colony. These ants are often organized into Super colonies and can infest whole blocks of houses at a time. They can be difficult to eliminate. Multiple applications are often needed. Sweet ant baits are often helpful.
Inside, these ants usually construct their nests in wall voids and crevices around sinks, cupboards, window frames and in wall outlets. Outside they prefer the voids between retaining wall blocks, slate retaining walls and matted Mulch. Anything that can provide shelter. They can often be seen trailing along the foundation wall where the soil and foundation meet.
These ants prefer sweets but also eat foods high in protein content and grease such as meats and cheese