Wildlife Spotlight: Identifying Carpenter Ants – Key Features and Behaviors

Carpenter ants may not eat wood like termites, but they can still cause serious damage by tunneling through it to build their nests. Identifying these pests early can help prevent costly structural damage to your home. Knowing what to look for and understanding their behaviors can help you take action before an infestation worsens.

Key Features of Carpenter Ants

Carpenter ants are among the largest ant species, typically ranging from ¼ to ½ inch in size. They are usually black, red, or a combination of both. These ants have a distinctive rounded thorax, bent antennae, and powerful mandibles that they use for excavating wood. Unlike termites, carpenter ants do not eat wood—they remove it to create tunnels and nesting galleries.

Signs of Carpenter Ant Activity

💠 Wood Shavings: If you notice small piles of wood shavings (frass) near baseboards, window sills, or wooden structures, carpenter ants may be tunneling inside.
💠 Hollow Sounds in Wood: Tap on wooden surfaces; if they sound hollow, it could indicate carpenter ant damage.
💠 Rustling Noises in Walls: You might hear faint rustling sounds at night when the colony is most active.
💠 Winged Ants (Swarmers): Seeing large, winged ants indoors, especially in spring, is a major sign of an infestation.

Understanding Carpenter Ant Behavior

Carpenter ants prefer damp, rotting, or decayed wood, making areas like attics, basements, window frames, and wooden decks prime nesting spots. They forage primarily at night and will travel long distances in search of food, including sweets, proteins, and greasy substances.

How to Prevent Carpenter Ant Infestations

✔ Eliminate Moisture: Fix leaks, improve ventilation, and replace damp wood.
✔ Seal Entry Points: Close off cracks and crevices in your home’s foundation, siding, and windows.
✔ Store Food Properly: Keep food sealed and clean up spills immediately to deter foraging ants.

Get Professional Carpenter Ant Control

DIY methods often fail to target the entire colony, leading to ongoing issues. If you suspect carpenter ants in your home, professional pest control is the most effective solution. Our experts use targeted treatments to locate nests, eliminate the colony, and protect your home from future infestations.