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Carpenter Ant against a white background - Keep Carpenter ants away from your home with City Termite & Pest Control in Malvern, AR

Carpenter Ant

Actual Size: ⅝”

Characteristics: Large with a variety of colors, from solid black to a blend of red and black

Legs: 6

Antennae: Yes

Wings: Swarmers have two sets of wings.

Habitat: Carpenter ants are known for their preference for damp, moist environments. They are often found in wooden structures like hollow trees, logs, landscaping timbers, and even wood within buildings and homes. These environments provide the perfect conditions for them to create their nests and thrive.

Habits:

  • Carpenter ants have a diverse diet, but they show a particular fondness for the sweet honeydew produced by aphids and other plant-sucking insects.
  • They are also known to feed on proteins and sugars from various sources, which can include household food items.


Carpenter Ants in Central Arkansas

Often confused with termites due to their wood-burrowing habits, carpenter ants do not actually consume wood. Instead, they meticulously carve out tunnels and galleries within the wood to establish their nests, which can compromise the structural integrity of the affected wood over time.

Carpenter Ant Habitat

Unlike termites, carpenter ants are attracted to moisture and can be found both inside and outside structures. Indoor nests are typically satellite extensions of a main colony located outside in moist wood, such as in trees, stumps, or piles of firewood. Homeowners are advised to manage moisture levels in their homes, repair leaks, and ensure the wood is kept dry to prevent carpenter ant colonies from establishing.

Carpenter Ant Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers

Carpenter ants pose a significant threat to property due to their nest-building activities. The presence of carpenter ants in a home often signals an underlying moisture problem. Signs of an infestation include small piles of sawdust-like material, subtle rustling noises within walls, and the appearance of winged ants, especially during spring, which indicates the presence of an active colony. While these ants are not aggressive to humans and rarely bite, their ability to weaken wooden structures can lead to costly damage.

If a carpenter ant infestation is suspected, it is best to contact a professional ant exterminator.