Carpenter Ant (Winged Reproductive)

Found globally in forested areas where they nest in moist wood, but often seen in homes near windows during swarming season.

Opportunistic omnivores that eat honeydew, insects, fruit juices, and household proteins and sugars. They do not eat wood, but excavate it to create nests.

Social insects with a complex caste system. Winged 'alates' engage in nuptial flights to mate and start new colonies, often during spring and early summer.

Can cause structural damage to homes by hollowing out wood for nests. However, in nature, they are beneficial as they accelerate the decomposition of dead wood and aerate soil.