Carpenter ants are some of the largest ants, ranging from 1/4 to 1/2 inch in length. They are typically black, but some species found in Birmingham may have reddish-brown or two-toned black and red coloration. Their bodies have three distinct segments: a rounded thorax, a narrow pinched waist, and elbowed (bent) antennae.
During swarming season, you may also notice winged carpenter ants, which have two pairs of wings, with the front pair longer than the back, distinguishing them from termites.
Carpenter ants are omnivores, meaning they eat a variety of foods. They are particularly attracted to sugary substances like honeydew produced by aphids, fruits, and spills. They also consume protein-rich foods, such as insects, pet food, and meat scraps, making kitchens and pantries a common foraging area indoors.
While carpenter ants do not pose a direct threat to humans - they rarely bite and are not venomous - they can cause minor to more significant damage to homes. By tunneling through wood to expand their nests, these ants can weaken the structural integrity of beams, floors, and walls over time.
Carpenter ants nest in wood, but unlike termites, they don’t eat it. Instead, they tunnel through moist or decayed wood to create smooth galleries for their colonies. In Birmingham homes, they are often found in areas with water damage, such as around windows, doors, and leaking pipes, or in basements, crawl spaces, and attics. Outdoors, they commonly nest in tree stumps, fallen branches, or wooden landscaping features.
Signs of a carpenter ant infestation include:
Carpenter ants enter homes through cracks in foundations, gaps around doors and windows, and utility penetrations. They are especially attracted to moisture-damaged wood, so any areas with leaks or poor ventilation can serve as entry points. Overhanging tree branches or shrubs touching the home can also provide an easy pathway for carpenter ants.
If you suspect a carpenter ant infestation, it’s important to act quickly to prevent further damage. While DIY treatments can offer temporary relief, professional pest control services are more effective at locating and eliminating the nest. Pest control professionals can also identify and address the underlying conditions that attracted the ants in the first place.
For expert carpenter ant identification and control in Birmingham, contact the trusted pest control pros at Acre Pest Control!
To prevent carpenter ants, we recommend:
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