Carpenter ants get their name from their natural ability to hollow out galleries in wood for nesting. Since carpenter ants do not eat wood but rather excavate their galleries, the sudden and frequent appearance of saw dust is an indicator that an infestation exists. Most commonly found are the black carpenter ant, however, they may be found with combinations of red and black or completely red or even brown. Not only can carpenter ants vary in color but also in size ranging from 1/4 – 3/4”. Inside, infestations may occur as a result of moisture issues in and around chimneys, roof valleys, gutters, wall voids as well as window and door frames. The excess moisture in these areas creates a conducive environment for carpenter ants to nest. Outside, they typically nest in tree stumps, rotting fence posts, landscape timbers, firewood piles, dead portions of standing trees and fallen trees. Carpenter Ant swarmers can emerge from May until August.
