They also feed on grass seeds in the ground, thereby preventing good stands of newly reseeded grasses. Moisture stress is common in ant-infested lawns due to root damage and the many tunnels which promote water loss from the soil. Such females eventually lose their wings. The workers construct and repair the nest, gather food and feed the immature and adult ants, care for the brood and defend the nest. Workers may also lay eggs but egglaying is usually the queen's job.
Male ants appear only in very large or old colonies and die soon after mating with the new queen.
If sap from trees is attracting ants, clean and paint the wounds. Otherwise, broadcast a granular insecticide over the grass or treat individual mounds. Keep people and pets off the treated areas until the insecticide has been watered into the soil by sprinkling or rain and the grass has dried. One treatment per year should be sufficient. For recommended insecticides and rates, consult the Agricultural Extension Service.