Deborah TorresCarpenter ants are among the most common types of ants in North America. They are attracted to moist wood, which makes them a common pest in homes. Carpenter ants can damage wood through their nest-building activities, and they can also contaminate food. If you have carpenter ants in your house, it is important to take steps to get rid of them.
What Are Carpenter Ants?
Carpenter ants are a species of ant that is found throughout North America. They get their name from their habit of nesting in wood, where they excavate galleries as they eat the wood. Carpenter ants are among the largest ants in North America, with workers measuring up to 3/8 to 1/2 inch long. Carpenter ants are black or brown in color and have a relatively smooth body. They can be distinguished from other species of ant by their 12-segmented antennae and two nodes on their thorax.
Carpenter ants nest in colonies that can contain up to several thousand workers. The workers build the nest, forage for food, and take care of the young. The queen ant lays eggs and is responsible for reproduction. Carpenter ants are omnivorous and eat a variety of things, including honeydew, plant nectar, seeds, insects, and carrion.
Signs of Carpenter Ants in Your Home
Carpenter ants can be a nuisance in the home, and it is important to be able to identify them in order to deal with the infestation. There are several signs that carpenter ants may be present in your home.
One sign is the sighting of live or dead ants inside the home. Another sign is the presence of large, black carpenter ant eggs.
Carpenter ants also produce a sawdust-like material called frass, which can often be found near their nests. If you see any of these signs, it is important to take action and address the carpenter ant infestation.
Carpenter Ants Nesting Habits
Carpenter ants nesting habits can vary significantly from one colony to the next. Some colonies will build their nests in dead trees, while others will nest in live trees, fence posts, or even in homes.
Carpenter ants are very selective about the wood they use for their nests, and they prefer to use softwoods like pine or cedar. Nests are typically built in moist, shaded areas where the temperature is relatively constant.
Carpenter Ant Control and Prevention
There are several things that you can do to prevent and control carpenter ants. The most important thing is to keep your home and property clean and free of debris. Make sure that you keep your gutters clean, and store firewood away from your home.
Another way is to seal any cracks or openings in the home that may serve as an entrance for the ants. It is also important to remove any food sources that the ants may be drawn to, such as rotting wood or pet food. If an infestation has already occurred, it is best to call a professional pest control company to get rid of the ants.
What Happens if A Carpenter Ant Bites You?
If you are bitten by a carpenter ant, you may experience some pain and swelling. In some cases, an allergic reaction to the ant’s venom may occur, which can cause symptoms such as chest tightness, difficulty breathing, and hives. If you experience any of these symptoms after being bitten by a carpenter ant, seek medical attention immediately.
Conclusion
Carpenter ants are invading homes all over the country because they are looking for a new place to live. They are attracted to moisture and wood, which is why they often invade houses. If you have carpenter ants in your home, you should call a professional to get them out.
