What Are Rover Ants?

Rover ants are tiny (1/16 to 1/12 inch long), small, dark brown to pale blond ants. They may be seen excitedly running up and down vertical objects in yards, such as blades of grass, chairs, and fence posts, accompanied by larger winged individuals. Most often rover ants are seen as dead, winged females floating in pools in large numbers; their swollen bodies look striped. They are attracted to lights, generally appearing shortly after dusk during summer months, and their reproductive output is impressive. Female winged ants (alates) are three times larger than the male workers who are small enough to fit through mosquito screening. The males may not even look like ants because of their size and straight antennae.