Signs of a Carpenter Ant Infestation

Carpenter ants are a nuisance and can damage your property if not controlled. They nest in damp, rotting wood and can threaten its structural integrity. Early detection is crucial to preventing significant damage. 

In this article, we’ll discuss where do carpenter ants come from and some signs of a carpenter ant infestation that you should keep an eye out for.

Where do Carpenter Ants Come From?

Carpenter ants are found worldwide, including North America. They live in colonies and prefer moist, decaying wood for nesting. They can establish nests in natural structures like trees and man-made ones like houses and buildings.

Is Your Property Infested with Carpenter Ants?

Be vigilant for these telltale indicators of a carpenter ant infestation:

Ant Sightings

Sighting ants indoors is a clear sign of a carpenter ant infestation. These big, black or brownish-black ants, ranging from a quarter to a half-inch long, are primarily active at night, making daytime detection tricky. To confirm their classification as carpenter ants, it’s crucial to identify their ant type within your house.

Ant Trails

Carpenter ants live in large colonies and constantly travel to their food source, leaving pheromone trails for fellow ants to pursue. The presence of ants traversing crevices or cracks signifies an infestation. Follow these trails to locate their nest.

Sawdust and Wood Shavings

Carpenter ants make nests by burrowing into damp or rotting wood, leaving behind sawdust and shavings. Piles of sawdust or wood shavings around your property could indicate a carpenter ant infestation.

Winged Ants

Carpenter ants produce winged ants in the early spring. These winged ants are called swarmers and are responsible for creating new colonies. If you notice winged ants around or inside your home, it could be a sign of a nearby nest. These ants are typically seen near lights and windowsills.

Damaged Wood

Carpenter ants do not consume wood, but rather excavate tunnels within it to establish their nests. Unfortunately, this behavior can result in noteworthy structural damage to your home. If you observe indications of compromised wood, such as hollowness or brittleness, it is highly probable that carpenter ants are the cause.

Rustling or Tapping Sounds

Carpenter ants are noisy insects that can be heard rustling or tapping inside walls or woodwork. If you hear strange sounds coming from your walls or woodwork, it may indicate a carpenter ant infestation.

Frass

Carpenter ants produce a waste product called frass. Frass is a mixture of wood shavings and fecal matter and looks like a pile of fine sawdust. If you find frass around your property, it may indicate that you have a carpenter ant infestation.

Protect Your Property: Conquer Carpenter Ants and Prevent Costly Damage

Carpenter ants are a serious pest that poses a threat to your property if ignored. Early detection is crucial to prevent significant damage. If you notice signs described in this article, take prompt action. Reach out to a pest control expert for inspection and effective elimination. With proper treatment, you can protect your property from further damage caused by carpenter ants.

Mark Pest offers services to eliminate carpenter ants and protect your property. Our experienced technicians can inspect, identify the source, and provide effective treatment. Contact Mark Pest now to take control and prevent costly damage from carpenter ants.