Black Carpenter Ant

Found in forests, woodlands, and near human structures; they typically nest in moist or decaying wood such as logs, stumps, or hollow trees, but can move into structural timbers.

Omnivorous; they eat plant juices, honeydew from aphids, other insects, and sugary or protein-rich food scraps found in homes. Unlike termites, they do not eat wood, only excavate it.

Polymorphic workers (different sizes). They are primarily nocturnal and form large colonies with a complex social structure. They communicate via pheromones and are known for creating elaborate 'galleries' within wood for nesting.

Benefits: They are major decomposers of forest wood and predators of other insects. Risks: Can cause significant structural damage to homes by tunneling through wood to expand nests. They do not sting but can deliver a painful bite and spray formic acid into the wound.