Carpenter Ants

What do carpenter ants look like? 

Carpenter ants can be recognized easily because they are relatively large compared to other common ants in Florida. Adult carpenter ant workers can grow to about half an inch in length, while the queens can reach a sizable one inch in length. These ants are typically black, red, or a combination of black and red. Carpenter ants have large and powerful mandibles that they use to tunnel through the wood that they have invaded.

Where do carpenter ants nest?

Like those in other regions, carpenter ants in Florida establish indoor and outdoor nests. Here are a few typical carpenter ant nesting sites:

• Dead or decaying wood, such as tree stumps, logs, and firewood piles.

• Landscape timbers.

• Mulch and soil, near decaying wood. 

• Wooden beams, frames, and other wood inside structures that has been weakened by moisture or decay.

• Wall voids, particularly if there is a moisture problem.

• Attics and crawl spaces.

• Windows and door frames. 

• In insulation, especially if it's been compromised by moisture. 

Why do I have a carpenter ant problem?

Carpenter ants are initially attracted to properties with damp or rotting wood, such as fallen trees, limbs, and tree stumps, where they can create their nests. Once on your property, they will start looking for food sources and may enter homes and structures in the process.

Indoors, they are drawn to damaged or rotting structural wood. Unlike termites, they do not feed on wood but excavate it to create nesting galleries and establish a satellite colony near their food sources.

Are carpenter ants dangerous?

Carpenter ants are not harmful to people or pets. However, they can cause significant damage to homes and buildings if not properly treated. The damage caused by carpenter ants can range from minor cosmetic issues to more extensive and costly repairs.

How do I get rid of carpenter ants?

Successfully eliminating carpenter ants is no easy task. It's crucial to locate and eradicate the nest rather than just the visible foraging ants. This is a challenging task, which is why professional pest control is the best option. 

At Lindsey Pest Services, we offer home pest control plans and commercial pest control services that will eradicate entire carpenter ant colonies! To find out how we can help you get rid of carpenter ants, reach out today!