Carpenter Ants

What do carpenter ants look like?

Carpenter ants are the largest ants that invade homes, measuring between ¼ to ½ an inch long. Their color varies by species, ranging from red and black to reddish-brown with yellow hairs. You might not see them often because they are most active at night.

Do carpenter ants eat wood?

No, carpenter ants don’t eat wood. Their diet consists of nectar, honeydew, plant sap, and dead insects—similar to other ants. They tunnel into wood to create nests but don’t consume it.

Do carpenter ants bite?

Yes, but not in the way fire ants do. Carpenter ants lack stingers, so they don’t deliver venomous stings. However, they can bite if their nest is disturbed, and their strong jaws can sometimes break the skin.

Are carpenter ants dangerous?

Not to people, but they can be a problem for homes. While their bites are minor and easy to treat, their wood-damaging habits pose a more significant concern. Left unchecked, they can weaken wooden structures over time.

Where do carpenter ants nest?

Carpenter ants prefer nesting in wood but don’t go for just any wood. They target softened or decaying wood because it’s easier to tunnel through. Common nesting sites include:

• Tree stumps
• Fallen branches
• Tree cavities
• Structural wood
• Wall voids
• Window frames
• Roof eaves

If you suspect carpenter ants in your Tampa Bay home, a professional inspection can confirm their presence.

What attracts carpenter ants to a home?

Carpenter ants look for ideal conditions that support their survival and growth. Here are some factors that can draw them to your property:

• Weeds and flowering plants – Nectar and plant sap provide food.
• Open trash bins – They scavenge food from garbage.
• Aphids in landscaping – Carpenter ants protect aphids because they produce honeydew, a favorite food source.
• Standing water – Overfilled plant pots, leaky spigots, and clogged gutters create moisture.
• Damp or decaying wood – Soft wood makes easy nesting material.

Reducing these attractants can help deter carpenter ants from invading.

How can I tell if I have carpenter ants?

Signs of carpenter ants include:

• Shed wings from swarmers
• Damage to wood around doors and windows
• Hollow sounds when tapping wood structures
• Rustling noises inside walls
• Seeing ants, especially at dawn or dusk

If you notice these signs, a professional inspection can determine the extent of the infestation.

Can I get rid of carpenter ants myself?

Carpenter ants can be tough to eliminate on your own. Their nocturnal habits and hidden nests make DIY control difficult. A professional approach ensures the problem is fully addressed.

What’s the best way to eliminate carpenter ants?

The best way to resolve carpenter ant infestations in the Tampa Bay Metro is to call Anti-Pesto Bug Killers. Our locally owned and family-operated pest control company offers effective pest control services that include thorough inspections and targeted treatments. Contact us today for more information or to request a free quote!

How can I prevent a carpenter ant infestation?

To reduce the chances of a carpenter ant problem in or around your home, try these steps:

• Eliminate standing water and fix leaks
• Trim vegetation to minimize moisture buildup
• Manage weeds in your lawn and landscaping
• Control aphids and other plant-damaging pests
• Reduce exterior lighting to limit insect populations (ant food)
• Keep trash cans covered and avoid overfilling them
• Seal cracks, gaps, and damaged areas around your home
• Maintain a clean interior free of food debris