Where do Cornfield ants typically establish their nests?

Cornfield ants typically establish their nests in fields and around homes. This choice reflects their natural habitat preferences, as these ants are often found in agricultural settings where they can access food sources such as seeds, grains, and aphids. The association with fields suggests that they thrive in open, sunny areas, making it easier for them to forage for food and conduct their activities. Additionally, nesting near homes allows them to exploit potential resources from human activity, such as leftover food or garden pests.

The other options mention locations that are not typical for cornfield ants. For instance, nesting in trees and shrubs implies a preference for elevated structures, which is not characteristic of this species. Similarly, while some ants do create underground tunnels, cornfield ants are more surface-oriented. Nesting in air vents is unusual behavior for most ants, as they prefer environments where they can easily access soil or other ground-based substrates.