The Acrobat Ant (Crematogaster spp.) is light brown to black; heart-shaped abdomen and typically measures ⅛–¼ inch. Acrobat ants (genus Crematogaster) get their distinctive name from their habit of raising their heart-shaped abdomen up over their thorax and head when disturbed — a unique and easily recognizable beh.

The Acrobat Ant is generally low-risk, but caution is still advised. Can strip insulation from electrical wires — potential fire hazard. Minor structural damage from wood nesting. Bites when disturbed. Not medically dangerous.

In Arizona, acrobat ants are most often encountered in the following situations: Small ants raising their abdomen over their head when disturbed. Heart-shaped abdomen visible from above. Nests in moist wood, foam insulation, or wall voids. Trails on tree trunks or exterior walls.

The Acrobat Ant is most active during: Year-round; most active spring through fall. Arizona's warm desert climate can extend activity periods compared to other states, so year-round vigilance is recommended in the Phoenix metro and surrounding areas.

Fix moisture problems. Remove dead wood and stumps. Seal entry points around utility penetrations. Trim vegetation away from the structure.

Non-repellent insecticide applied to nesting sites. Void injections for wall-nesting colonies. Perimeter treatment. Address moisture source.

Most store-bought ant sprays kill only the workers you see, while the queen and colony remain protected underground. Effective Acrobat Ant control requires baiting or targeted colony treatments that workers carry back to the nest. Pest Control Bros uses professional-grade products and application methods that address the entire colony.