What is a common behavior of pharaoh ants when they are disturbed?

Pharaoh ants exhibit a behavior of scattering when they are disturbed. This is a survival mechanism that helps them evade threats. When they sense danger, such as vibrations or sudden movements, they instinctively disperse to avoid predation or other dangers. This behavior is particularly advantageous for such small insects, allowing them to confuse predators and reduce the chances of being captured.

In contrast, becoming aggressive or forming a circle is not characteristic of pharaoh ants’ typical responses. They do not exhibit defensive behavior such as aggression commonly seen in other ant species. Similarly, while flying might be a behavior associated with certain ants during specific life stages (such as during swarming), pharaoh ants are not known to fly as a reaction to disturbance. Their primary reaction remains to scatter, making it an effective strategy for their survival in various environments.