Question
I have noticed numerous times that fuse boxes and electrical extension cords with bad insulation seem to attract ants. Are ants really attracted to electricity, and if so, why?
Answer
We don’t know about all ants, but fire ants in particular are attracted to electrical fields, for reasons not yet understood. Research is ongoing, because the ants do a great deal of damage, but nothing has yet been devised to stop them. One device, purported to zap the ants with electricity, was found to be used by them as a nest!
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