Carpenter Ants

What Do Carpenter Ants Look Like?

The Floridian carpenter ants are large black and red ants that measure around 1/2 an inch in length with oval, segmented bodies.

Are Carpenter Ants Dangerous?

In large enough numbers, carpenter ants can do considerable damage to the structure of your home. Even if they do not do serious damage initially, they can prove to be quite a nuisance.

If disturbed, carpenter ants pack a powerful bite, which can be quite painful. They may also inject formic acid, which causes the bite to sting. Fortunately, bites from this ant do not usually cause any lasting damage.

Where Do Carpenter Ants Nest?

Carpenter ants are adaptive but thrive best in areas that contain moist wood in which they can make their homes. They have been known to build their nests outdoors in stumps, logs, and other wood clutter. It is most common to find these nests within about 100 yards of your home, as this is the general distance that a carpenter ant will travel in search of food. When they move indoors, they are again looking for moist wood which they can excavate and build their nests within. It’s important to check under sinks, in basements, and in bathrooms for signs of an infestation.

How Do I Tell the Difference Between Carpenter Ants and Termites?

Carpenter ants and termites can be distinguished first by looking at the shape of their bodies. Pay special attention to their antennae, as carpenter ants’ antennae are formed in an elbow shape. In contrast, termites have straight antennae. Behavior is also a good indicator. Unlike termites, carpenter ants do not eat the wood that they excavate. If you see the insect-eating wood instead of moving it out of the way, you know that this is a termite.