Carpenter Ant

Carpenter ants are polymorphic, which means that individual ant sizes vary within a colony from 1/8 to 1 inch. There is a distinctive smooth profile along the thorax, and one triangle-shaped segment (node) comprising the pedicel between the thorax and abdomen. Carpenter ants are the largest ants in the Northeast. Various species of carpenter ants exhibit different color patterns, but the common structure-invading species, is black with golden hairs on the abdomen. Others may be a combination of reddish brown and black. A small black carpenter ant may be confused with pavement or little black ants. Evidence of an infestation includes the presence of sawdust with ant body parts and tunnels and galleries that are clean and smooth crossing with dense rings inside, moisture-damaged wood.

Carpenter ants will nest underground, in structures, or in a combination of the two. One main colony may have as many as 8 smaller satellite colonies in close range. It is common to find a satellite colony within a structure, and in these cases the main colony containing the queen may be located inside a hollow tree nearby. Once established, it may take several years for a colony to mature. The size of the largest individuals is an indicator of the availability of nutrition and the maturity of a carpenter ant colony. A mature colony can have more than 100,000 members. Colonies overwinter in northern climates and will forage indoors during cold weather. These ants are more active at night. Carpenter ants feed on a variety of substances, from other insects to seeds and honeydew.

Carpenter ants typically excavate (but do not eat) damaged wood, especially wood that was formerly inhabited by termites or weakened by moisture and rot. From there, they will extend into sound wood, cavities, wall voids, insulation, foam, or other objects. Carpenter ants will occupy the space below roofing tiles where moisture and fungus have damaged the roof sheathing. They can cause significant damage over time and must be controlled for the well-being of the structure. Colonies can become very large within buildings. When colonies are located outside, carpenter ant foragers may only venture indoors in search of food and water. They are fond of sweet foods but also feed on animal matter.