Carpenter Ant

Found in forests, wooded areas, and inside human structures where damp or decaying wood is present.

Omnivorous; they eat protein such as other insects and sugar such as honeydew from aphids, nectar, and sweets inside homes.

They do not eat wood but excavate it to build nests. They are most active at night and follow established pheromone trails to food sources.

Risks include structural damage to homes if nests are established in wooden supports. Benefits include aerating soil and decomposing organic matter in natural ecosystems.