This Common Household Pest Has a Signature Scent; Can You Smell It?

Last week, our kitchen had some unwelcome visitors. It's common in the summer here in Kentucky to see a little conga line of ants trying to find an abandoned snack on the counter or crumbs by the sink.

I Can Smell Ants. Is That Weird?

My mom uses a special Borax recipe to keep them away that works really well, but our invasion didn't last long enough to mix it up this time. However, I was reminded of my strange superpower. I can smell ants. My friends all think I'm weird, but ants totally have their own signature scent that not everyone notices.

Ants Communicate With Smells

Like many living things, ants give off pheromones to communicate with each other. They have scent receptors in their tiny antenna to pick up on what their little pals put down.  Popular Science says,

"Many common species of ants release pungent smells when they are in danger, squished, or otherwise dead, according to Clint Penick, an assistant professor at Kennesaw State University and ant researcher."

This lets the other ants know to beware.  It can also be a defense mechanism to ward off predators. In some species, like Carpenter ants, these aromas can contain formic acid, which can actually cause burns.

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What do Ants Smell Like?

Different types of ants give off an array of scents. From stinky to sweet, we first have the most common in our area, the Odorous House Ant. It gives off what is described as a blue cheese scent, but I would classify it more as a coconut that's gone bad.

Citronella ants are appropriately named because they give off a sweet citrus smell. Some say they even taste like lemon, but that is a science experiment I am not ready for. I've never even heard of Trap Jaw Ants, but they are known to smell like chocolate. So wild!

Why Can Some People Smell Ants?

Like the controversial "cilantro tastes like soap" discussion, or asparagus' special quality, the ability to smell ants leaves folks divided. From what I've been able to find, it is not common for humans to be able to smell ants. Not a lot is known about this strange "superpower," but according to Live Science, they do know that it is a genetic mutation of sorts.

It's also possible that people just don't notice.  What about you? Have you ever noticed what ants smell like? If not, be sure and pay attention the next time you squish one.