Carpenter Ant (Camponotus spp)

Carpenter ants are large ants that are commonly found in forested areas around the world. They are called "carpenter" ants because they excavate wood to create their nests and galleries. Unlike termites, which actually eat wood, carpenter ants do not consume wood, but instead chew it and remove it to create their nests.

The scientific name for carpenter ants is "Camponotus spp." There are over a thousand species of carpenter ants worldwide, and they belong to the genus Camponotus, which is part of the ant family Formicidae. Each species of carpenter ant has its own specific scientific name, such as Camponotus pennsylvanicus for the black carpenter ant found in the eastern United States.

Carpenter ants are typically black, red, or a combination of both colors and can range in size from 1/4 inch to 1 inch in length. They have powerful jaws, which they use to excavate wood and defend their nests. Carpenter ants are social insects that live in colonies, and each colony can contain thousands of ants.

While carpenter ants do not eat wood, they can cause significant damage to wooden structures if they infest them. If you suspect that you have a carpenter ant infestation, it is important to address it promptly to prevent further damage to your property.

Carpenter Ant Infestation Signs

Carpenter ants can cause damage to wood structures and therefore it is important to be aware of the signs of an infestation. Here are some common signs of a carpenter ant infestation:

Presence of Ants: Seeing ants in or around your property, particularly larger black or red ants, strongly indicates a carpenter ant infestation.
Sawdust and Wood Shavings: Carpenter ants create galleries and tunnels within wood, which can cause sawdust and wood shavings to accumulate around the infested area.
Noises: If you listen carefully, you may be able to hear the sound of carpenter ants chewing or rustling inside the wood.
Swarmers: When a carpenter ant colony reaches maturity, winged ants known as swarmers will emerge to mate and start new colonies. Seeing swarmers around your property may indicate an established colony nearby.
Hollow-Sounding Wood: As carpenter ants tunnel through wood, they create hollow spaces that can cause the wood to sound hollow when tapped.
Damaged Wood: Over time, carpenter ants can cause significant damage to wooden structures. If you notice structural damage to your property, such as sagging or weakened beams, it could be a sign of a carpenter ant infestation.

If you suspect a carpenter ant infestation, it is important to contact a pest control professional to inspect and treat the affected area.

What Do Carpenter Ants Look Like?

Carpenter ants are relatively large, with workers measuring 6 to 12 millimeters in length. They vary in color from black to red, and some species have a combination of black and red colors.

Carpenter ants have a distinct body shape with a narrow, constricted waist and a rounded thorax. They have six legs, two antennae, and powerful mandibles that they use to chew through wood and defend their colony. The workers, which are the most commonly seen caste of carpenter ants, are typically black in color, with a shiny exoskeleton and large, well-developed mandibles.

In contrast, the winged reproductive males and females (also known as swarmers) are larger in size than the workers, and they have wings. The males are typically black in color, while the females are usually reddish-brown.

It is worth noting that carpenter ants can be mistaken for other ant species or even termites. Termites have straight antennae and a uniform waist, while carpenter ants have elbowed antennae and a constricted waist. In addition, termites have a creamy white or translucent appearance, while carpenter ants have a solid, opaque exoskeleton.

How Can You Tell If Carpenter Ants Are Living in the House?

There are several signs that can indicate if carpenter ants are living in your house. Here are some things to look for:

Presence of Ants: If you see large black or red ants in your home, especially near windows, doors, or cracks in the walls, it could be a sign of a carpenter ant infestation.
Sawdust and Wood Shavings: Carpenter ants excavate galleries and tunnels in wood, which can cause sawdust and wood shavings to accumulate around the infested area.
Noises: You may be able to hear the sound of carpenter ants rustling or chewing inside the wood.
Swarmers: When a carpenter ant colony reaches maturity, winged ants known as swarmers will emerge to mate and start new colonies. Seeing swarmers inside your home can indicate an established colony nearby.
Hollow-Sounding Wood: As carpenter ants tunnel through wood, they create hollow spaces that can cause the wood to sound hollow when tapped.
Damaged Wood: Over time, carpenter ants can cause significant damage to wooden structures. If you notice structural damage to your home, such as sagging or weakened beams, it could be a sign of a carpenter ant infestation.

Carpenter Ant Photos

How to Get Rid of Carpenter Ants?

Getting rid of carpenter ants can be a difficult process, especially if the infestation is severe. Here are some steps that can help you eliminate carpenter ants:

Locate the Nest: The first step in getting rid of carpenter ants is to locate the nest. Look for sawdust, wood shavings, and ant trails to help pinpoint the nest's location. You may need to inspect both the interior and exterior of your home to find it.
Baiting: Carpenter ant baits can be an effective way to eliminate the colony. The ants will take the bait back to the nest, where it will kill the queen and other members of the colony. It is important to use bait specifically designed for carpenter ants, as generic ant baits may not be effective.
Insecticides: Insecticides can be used to kill carpenter ants on contact, but they may not reach the entire colony. Be sure to use an insecticide specifically labeled for carpenter ants, and follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
Remove Damaged Wood: If the carpenter ants have caused significant damage to wooden structures, removing and replacing the damaged wood may be necessary.
Sealing Entry Points: Once the infestation has been eliminated, it is important to seal any entry points that the ants may have used to gain access to your home.

It is important to note that getting rid of a carpenter ant infestation can be a complex process, and it may be best to seek the assistance of a professional pest control service. A trained professional can help identify the extent of the infestation and develop an effective treatment plan to eliminate the colony and prevent future infestations.

How Do You Prevent Carpenter Ants?

Preventing carpenter ant infestations can be easier than getting rid of an established colony. Here are some steps you can take to prevent carpenter ants:

Eliminate Moisture: Carpenter ants are attracted to moist areas, so it is important to eliminate any sources of excess moisture in and around your home. This includes fixing leaky pipes and faucets, repairing damaged roof shingles, and ensuring that gutters and downspouts are functioning properly.
Remove Food Sources: Carpenter ants are attracted to food sources, so be sure to store food in airtight containers and clean up spills and crumbs promptly.
Seal Entry Points: Seal any cracks and gaps in your home's foundation, windows, and doors to prevent ants from entering your home. You can use caulk, weatherstripping, or foam insulation to seal these areas.
Trim Trees and Shrubs: Carpenter ants can use tree branches and shrubs as a bridge to access your home. Trim any branches or shrubs that touch your home's exterior to eliminate this access point.
Store Firewood Away from the House: Store firewood at least 20 feet away from your home to prevent carpenter ants from using it as a nesting site and then moving into your home.
Regular Inspections: Regularly inspect your home's exterior and interior for signs of carpenter ants and other pests. Early detection and prevention can help prevent a small problem from becoming a large infestation.

Taking these preventative measures can help reduce the likelihood of a carpenter ant infestation in your home.

Home remedies to Get Rid of Carpenter Ants

While professional pest control services and products are the most effective ways to eliminate carpenter ant infestations, there are a few home remedies that may help reduce their numbers or prevent them from entering your home:

Diatomaceous Earth: Diatomaceous earth is a natural powder made from the fossilized remains of diatoms, a type of algae. It can be sprinkled around areas where carpenter ants are present, and the powder will absorb moisture from the ants' exoskeletons, causing them to dehydrate and die.
Vinegar: Vinegar can be used to clean surfaces where carpenter ants have been present, as the strong odor can deter them from returning. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle and apply it to surfaces such as countertops, baseboards, and window sills.
Borax and Sugar: A mixture of borax and sugar can be used as a homemade bait to attract carpenter ants. Mix equal parts borax and sugar and place it in small dishes near areas where ants have been seen. The ants will be attracted to the sugar and consume the borax, eventually killing them.
Orange Oil: Orange oil is a natural insecticide that can be used to kill carpenter ants. Apply a few drops of orange oil to a cotton ball and place it near areas where ants have been seen.

It's important to note that while these home remedies may help reduce the number of carpenter ants present, they may not completely eliminate an established colony. If you have a severe carpenter ant infestation, it's best to contact a professional pest control service for effective treatment.

Do Carpenter Ants Bite?

Yes, carpenter ants can bite but typically only do so when they feel threatened. Carpenter ants have strong mandibles and can deliver a painful bite, but their bites are not typically harmful to humans. Carpenter ants do not have venom or stingers, so they cannot inject toxins or poison into their bite. However, their bites can cause redness, swelling, and discomfort. If a carpenter ant bites you, wash the affected area with soap and water, and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling and pain. See medical attention immediately if you experience an allergic reaction or severe symptoms.

How Do Carpenter Ants Mate?

Carpenter ants, like most ants, have a male and female reproductive caste responsible for mating. Mating in carpenter ants typically occurs during the nuptial flight, which is a period when winged male and female ants leave their colony in search of mates.

During the nuptial flight, male carpenter ants will locate a female and attempt to mate with her. The male ant will use his antennae to detect pheromones released by the female, which indicate that she is ready to mate. If the male successfully mates, he will die shortly after, as this is his sole purpose in life.

After mating, the female carpenter ant will land and shed her wings, as she will no longer need them. She will then search for a suitable location to establish a new colony, typically in a piece of decaying wood. Once she has found a suitable site, the female will lay eggs and care for the brood until they mature into worker ants.

What Do Carpenter Ants Eat?

Carpenter ants are omnivores, meaning they eat various foods including other insects, honeydew, nectar, and fruit juices. However, unlike other ants, carpenter ants do not eat wood.

Carpenter ants primarily feed on insects such as caterpillars, flies, and spiders. They also consume sugary substances such as honeydew, a sweet liquid excreted by aphids and other sap-sucking insects. Carpenter ants will often "farm" aphids and other insects, protecting them from predators in exchange for honeydew.

In addition to their primary sources of food, carpenter ants may scavenge for other sources of protein and carbohydrates. They are attracted to sweet and greasy foods like sugar, syrup, and meats. However, carpenter ants do not typically consume human food in large quantities, and are not considered to be major pests in this regard.

How Big Are Carpenter Ant Colonies?

Carpenter ant colonies can vary in size, depending on the species and the age of the colony. A mature colony can contain anywhere from several thousand to tens of thousands of worker ants and reproductive males and females. However, some species of carpenter ants can have colonies with hundreds of thousands of workers.

Carpenter ants are social insects that live in organized colonies, with a clear division of labor between different types of ants. The queen is responsible for laying eggs, while worker ants take care of the brood, defend the colony, and gather food. Male ants are responsible solely for mating with the queen.

As carpenter ants establish new colonies, they may start with just a few dozen workers and slowly grow in size over several years. Colonies typically take several years to reach maturity, with the number of workers increasing as new brood hatch and mature into adult ants.

It's worth noting that carpenter ants can cause significant damage to wooden structures, especially when colonies are allowed to grow unchecked. Homeowners who suspect that they have a carpenter ant infestation should contact a pest control professional to assess the situation and recommend appropriate treatment.

Carpenter ant colonies are typically organized into a hierarchical structure, with a single queen responsible for reproduction and a large number of workers responsible for carrying out various tasks, such as foraging for food, caring for the brood, and defending the colony.

Carpenter ant colonies can be divided into two broad categories based on their nesting behavior: primary and satellite colonies.

Primary colonies are established by a single queen and can be found in natural environments such as tree stumps or logs. These colonies typically consist of a network of tunnels and galleries excavated in the wood, which serve as a nest for the ants.

On the other hand, Satellite colonies are established by workers from an existing primary colony. Satellite colonies are typically smaller and located in nearby structures, such as houses or other buildings. These colonies are often connected to the primary colony by underground tunnels, and serve as a way for the ants to expand their territory.

Within a carpenter ant colony, there are different types of ants that perform specific tasks. The queen is responsible for laying eggs, while the workers carry out various tasks such as foraging for food, caring for the brood, and defending the colony. Male ants are responsible solely for mating with the queen.

Carpenter ants are also known for their ability to form "subcolonies," which are satellite colonies that are not connected to the main colony. Subcolonies are typically formed when a group of ants splits off from the main colony and establishes a new colony in a nearby location. Subcolonies can be a challenge for pest control professionals, as they can be difficult to detect and eradicate.

What Kind of Wood Do Carpenter Ants Attack?

Carpenter ants are known for their ability to excavate wood in order to create nesting sites, but they do not actually eat the wood. Instead, they remove the wood to create tunnels and galleries in which to establish their colonies.

Carpenter ants will typically seek out moist or damaged wood, as this is easier to excavate than dry, sound wood. They are attracted to wood that has been weakened by water damage, fungal decay, or other types of decay.

Some common types of wood that carpenter ants are known to attack include:

Softwoods such as pine, spruce, and fir
Hardwoods such as oak, maple, and hickory
Plywood and particleboard
Structural lumber, such as beams and posts
Wood that termites or other wood-boring insects have previously damaged.

It's worth noting that carpenter ants do not attack wood indiscriminately, and will typically only excavate wood that is already damaged or in a state of decay. Homeowners can reduce the risk of a carpenter ant infestation by addressing water damage, leaks, and other issues that can lead to wood decay, and by regularly inspecting and maintaining the wooden structures in and around their home.

How Do Carpenter Ants Enter Buildings?

Carpenter ants can enter buildings in a variety of ways, and are known for their ability to exploit even small openings or cracks in a structure. Here are some common ways that carpenter ants may enter a building:

Cracks and gaps: Carpenter ants are able to crawl through even small cracks or gaps in a building's foundation, walls, windows, and doors.
Trees and shrubs: Carpenter ants may climb up trees or shrubs and then enter a building through overhanging branches or other openings.
Utility lines: Carpenter ants may use utility lines such as power lines or telephone lines to enter a building.
Moisture issues: Carpenter ants are attracted to moist environments and may enter a building through leaks in pipes, roofs, or other areas where moisture is present.
Firewood: Carpenter ants may enter a building by hitchhiking on firewood that is brought inside.

Once inside a building, carpenter ants will typically establish their nests in areas of high moisture or decay, such as crawl spaces, attics, and wall voids. Homeowners can reduce the risk of a carpenter ant infestation by sealing cracks and gaps, trimming back trees and shrubs, and addressing moisture issues in and around their home. If a carpenter ant infestation is suspected, it is recommended to contact a pest control professional for an inspection and treatment plan.

Related: Stink Bugs (Halyomorpha halys)

Where Do Carpenter Ants Build Their Nests?

Carpenter ants build their nests in various locations, depending on the species and the availability of suitable nesting sites. In general, carpenter ants prefer to build their nests in moist, decaying wood, making it easier for them to excavate and providing a suitable environment for their young.

Here are some common locations where carpenter ants may build their nests:

Trees and stumps: Carpenter ants may establish their nests in trees or stumps, especially if the wood is moist or decaying.
Woodpiles: Carpenter ants may nest in woodpiles, particularly if the wood is damp or rotting.
Buildings: Carpenter ants may establish their nests in various locations within a building, including wall voids, crawl spaces, attics, and insulation. They are particularly attracted to areas with high moisture levels, such as around plumbing or in areas with leaks or water damage.
Landscape features: Carpenter ants may nest in landscape features such as fence posts, retaining walls, or garden furniture made of wood.

It's worth noting that carpenter ants are known for their ability to excavate wood and create complex tunnels and galleries within it. This can make it difficult to locate and eradicate a carpenter ant infestation, especially if the nest is located within the structure of a building. If a carpenter ant infestation is suspected, it's recommended to contact a pest control professional for an inspection and treatment plan.

What causes carpenter ants in the house?

Carpenter ants are attracted to wood, particularly damp or decaying wood. They are also attracted to areas with high moisture levels, which can be caused by a variety of factors. Here are some common causes of carpenter ants in the house:

Moisture: Carpenter ants are attracted to areas with high moisture levels, such as areas with leaks or water damage. A home with a moisture problem can provide an ideal environment for carpenter ants to thrive.
Wood: Carpenter ants are attracted to damp or decaying wood, as it is easier for them to excavate and provides a suitable environment for their young. If a home has damp or decaying wood, it can be a prime target for carpenter ant infestations.
Trees and shrubs: Carpenter ants may climb up trees or shrubs and then enter a home through overhanging branches or other openings.
Firewood: Carpenter ants may enter a home by hitchhiking on firewood that is brought inside.
Cracks and gaps: Carpenter ants are able to crawl through even small cracks or gaps in a home's foundation, walls, windows, and doors.

If a carpenter ant infestation is suspected, it's important to address any underlying moisture issues and to have the infestation treated by a pest control professional. Regular inspections and maintenance can help prevent carpenter ant infestations from occurring in the first place.

Why do I suddenly have carpenter ants?

You may suddenly have carpenter ants in your home for several reasons. Here are some possible explanations:

Moisture: Carpenter ants are attracted to areas with high moisture levels, so if your home has developed a moisture problem recently, it could be drawing carpenter ants in.
Weather: Carpenter ants are more active during the spring and summer months, so you may notice an increase in activity during these seasons.
Nest disturbance: If a nearby carpenter ant nest has been disturbed, the ants may move to a new location, including your home.
Construction: If your home or a nearby property is undergoing construction or renovation, it could be disrupting nearby carpenter ant nests and causing the ants to seek out new locations.
Hitchhiking: Carpenter ants may hitch a ride into your home on firewood, potted plants, or other items that have been stored outside.

It's important to identify the source of the carpenter ant infestation and address any underlying issues to prevent future infestations. A pest control professional can help you identify the source of the infestation and develop a treatment plan to eliminate it.

Are carpenter ants a serious problem?

Carpenter ants can be a serious problem if left untreated. While they do not spread disease, they can cause damage to the structure of a home. Carpenter ants excavate wood to create their nests; over time, this can weaken the wood and compromise the home's structural integrity. If the infestation is left untreated for a long time, it can result in costly repairs.

Additionally, carpenter ants can be difficult to control on your own. They often establish their nests in hard-to-reach areas, such as inside walls or beneath floorboards, making it difficult to eliminate the entire colony. If you suspect you have a carpenter ant infestation, it's important to contact a pest control professional to develop a treatment plan.

Overall, while carpenter ants are not dangerous to humans, they can cause significant damage to your home and require prompt attention to prevent further damage.

Satellite nests

Carpenter ants are known for creating satellite nests, which are secondary nests that are connected to the main nest. Satellite nests are smaller in size than the main nest, but they can still contain a significant number of ants. Carpenter ants use satellite nests to expand their territory and increase their chances of survival.

Satellite nests are typically established near food or water sources, such as kitchens or bathrooms. Carpenter ants will travel between the satellite nests and the main nest to gather food and water.

The presence of satellite nests can make it more difficult to eliminate a carpenter ant infestation. While treating the main nest is important, it's also necessary to identify and treat any satellite nests to prevent the infestation from persisting. A pest control professional can help identify and eliminate both the main nest and any satellite nests to effectively control a carpenter ant infestation.

Carpenter Ants’ defence system

Carpenter ants are known for producing and using formic acid as a defense mechanism. When threatened or disturbed, carpenter ants can spray formic acid from their mandibular glands, which can cause irritation and pain to potential predators or attackers.

Carpenter ants also use formic acid as a communication tool. They can use formic acid to mark trails that lead to food sources or to mark territories. This helps other ants find their way and avoid crossing into other colonies' territory.

In addition to being used by carpenter ants, formic acid can also be used to control carpenter ant infestations. When applied in a controlled manner, formic acid can be used to eliminate carpenter ant colonies. However, it is important to note that formic acid can be dangerous if not used properly, and should only be applied by a trained pest control professional.