Carpenter Ant

Natural Habitat

Forests and woodlands, often nesting in damp or decaying wood; can also nest in structural timber within homes.

Diet & Feeding

Omnivorous; they eat honeydew, plant juices, and other insects, but do not eat wood. They are attracted to sweet foods in homes.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal foragers that create smooth galleries in wood for nesting. They follow chemical trails and have a complex social structure including a queen, workers, and winged reproductive ants.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Can cause structural damage to buildings if they nest in woodwork. Benefits: In nature, they are crucial for forest ecosystems as they aid in the decomposition of dead wood and serve as food for other animals.

Identified on: 4/11/2026