Ant/Possible Carpenter Ant (Identification tentative due to low image quality)
Scientific Name: Camponotus spp.
Order & Family: Order: Hymenoptera, Family: Formicidae
Size: Workers range from 6 to 13 mm (0.25 to 0.5 inches), while queens can be up to 1 inch long.
Natural Habitat
They typically build nests in wood, including hollow trees, decaying logs, and structural lumber in homes, particularly if the wood is moist or damaged.
Diet & Feeding
Omnivorous; they feed on insect honeydew, plant juices, and other insects, but also scavenge insides homes for sweets, meats, and grease.
Behavior Patterns
They are nocturnal foragers known for excavating wood to build galleries for their nests (leaving behind sawdust-like 'frass'), rather than eating the wood like termites.
Risks & Benefits
Risks include structural damage to homes over time due to their excavation habits. They do not sting but can deliver a painful bite if threatened. Benefits include aiding in the decomposition of decaying forest wood.
Identified on: 2/11/2026