Identification
Carpenter ants are among the largest ant species, ranging from 1/4 to 1/2 inch in length. They are black, red, or a combination of both. These ants have six legs, bent antennae, and strong mandibles. Winged reproductive ants (swarmers) are larger and often confused with termites but have pinched waists and elbowed antennae.
Lifecycle & Reproduction
Carpenter ants undergo complete metamorphosis with four stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. Queens lay eggs that hatch into larvae, which are fed by workers until they pupate and emerge as adults. Colonies grow slowly, with mature nests housing thousands of individuals. Swarming typically occurs in spring or summer when reproductive ants establish new colonies.
Habits, Diet & Behavior
Unlike termites, carpenter ants do not eat wood but excavate it to create nests. They forage for proteins and sugary substances, often seeking food at night. They can travel long distances from their nests in search of sustenance.
Where You’ll Find Them / Typical Locations
Carpenter ants nest in damp or decayed wood, often found in:
- Structural wood in homes (walls, attics, and crawl spaces)
- Tree stumps and logs
- Wooden decks and fences
- Firewood piles and landscaping timbers
- Hollow doors and wooden furniture
Threats & Danger
Carpenter ants cause structural damage by tunneling through wood to establish their nests. Over time, this can weaken buildings, decks, and other wooden structures. Large infestations may go undetected until significant damage occurs.
Prevention
- Eliminate excess moisture and fix leaks promptly
- Seal cracks and entry points around doors and windows
- Remove decayed wood and tree stumps from around structures
- Store firewood away from buildings and elevate it off the ground
- Keep food sealed and clean up spills to prevent foraging
Signs of Infestation
- Presence of large black or red ants indoors, especially at night
- Small piles of sawdust-like debris near wood structures
- Rustling sounds inside walls or wooden surfaces
- Winged swarmers near windows and doors
- Hollowed-out wood with smooth galleries
How to Get Rid of It
- Use bait stations and non-repellent insecticides to target foraging ants
- Apply residual insecticides to entry points and nesting sites
- Remove and replace infested wood to eliminate colonies
- Utilize borate treatments to prevent further infestation
- Contact a pest control professional for severe infestations