Carpenter Ant (Alate/Winged Swarmer)

Natural Habitat

Nests in moist or decaying wood, though frequently found inside homes during swarming events.

Diet & Feeding

Omnivorous; feeds on proteins like insects and carbohydrates such as honeydew, fruit juices, and sweets found in homes.

Behavior Patterns

Winged 'alates' are reproductive members that emerge in spring/summer for nuptial flights to establish new colonies; they are primarily nocturnal or crepuscular.

Risks & Benefits

Benefits the ecosystem by speeding up wood decomposition; risks to humans include structural damage to homes if nesting in timber, though they do not eat wood like termites.

Identified on: 6/16/2026