Carpenter Ants

Carpenter ants are large ants belonging to the genus Camponotus. Unlike termites, carpenter ants do not eat wood but can cause significant damage to wooden structures by excavating galleries to build their nests. These ants are known for their ability to chew through wood and create tunnels, which can weaken the structural integrity of buildings.

Here are some key characteristics and facts about carpenter ants:

Carpenter ants are relatively large, with workers ranging in size from 6 to 13 mm. They can be black, red, brown, or a combination of these colors. The reproductive individuals, known as swarmers or alates, have wings.

Carpenter ants are found in various natural environments, such as forests, where they nest in dead or decaying wood. However, they can also become a problem for homeowners when they establish nests in structural wood, including wall voids, attics, and crawl spaces.

While they don't eat wood like termites, carpenter ants are omnivores and primarily feed on other insects and food debris. They forage for food and bring it back to their nests.

Carpenter ants prefer moist or damaged wood for nesting. They create smooth, clean galleries in the wood, which distinguishes their activity from the more irregular and dirty galleries created by termites.

The life cycle of a carpenter ant includes egg, larva, pupa, and adult stages. The colony is typically headed by a queen, and worker ants are responsible for foraging, caring for the brood, and expanding the nest.

Common signs of a carpenter ant infestation include the presence of large, winged ants (swarmers) inside or around the home, the sighting of worker ants foraging for food, and the discovery of piles of sawdust-like material (frass) near nesting sites.

Controlling carpenter ant infestations involves locating and eliminating the nest. This may require the assistance of a professional pest control service. To prevent infestations, it's essential to address moisture issues, seal entry points, and eliminate food sources that attract ants.

It's important to note that carpenter ants can be destructive to homes and structures, and if an infestation is suspected, it's advisable to seek professional pest control assistance for effective and long-term solutions.