Carpenter Ant Alate

Natural Habitat

Nests are typically found in moist, decaying wood such as logs, stumps, or structural timber within homes that have moisture problems.

Diet & Feeding

Omnivorous; they consume proteins like other insects and carbohydrates including honeydew from aphids and nectar. They do not eat wood.

Behavior Patterns

The winged individuals shown are 'alates' or reproductive ants that participate in nuptial flights to start new colonies. They are often most active during the spring and early summer.

Risks & Benefits

They can cause structural damage to buildings by tunneling into wood to build nests. Ecosystem benefits include the decomposition of organic matter and acting as a food source for wildlife.

Identified on: 6/28/2026