Carpenter Ant

Found in forests, woodlands, and suburban areas. They typically nest in moist or decaying wood, such as tree stumps, logs, and structural timbers of buildings.

They consume a wide range of food, including proteins and sugars. In the wild, they eat other insects and honeydew produced by aphids. In homes, they seek out sweets, meats, and fats.

They are nocturnal workers that create smooth tunnels in wood for nesting rather than eating the wood like termites. They are social insects with a complex caste system including workers, queens, and winged reproductive ants (swarmers).

Benefits include aiding in the decomposition of dead wood in nature. Risks include structural damage to homes if they establish large satellite nests in wall voids or damp timbers. They do not sting but can deliver a painful bite if handled.