Carpenter Ants(Order: Camponotus spp.)
Description: Large ants 1/4 to 3/4 inch long, usually black or a combination of black and red. The workers have large mandibles which can bite or pinch.
Developmental Biology: Ants have a complete metamorphosis which consists of an egg, larva, pupa and adult. Ants live in colonies and are social insects. Colonies of ants usually have three castes for the division of labor: workers, reproductive females (queens), and reproductive males. The workers are sterile females and the only job of the males in the colony is to inseminate the queens.
General Behavior: Carpenter ants will establish a nest outdoors in hollow logs, fence posts, even tree stumps. These ants prefer moist wood or decaying wood for the location of their nest. They do not actually eat wood. However, carpenter ants cut "galleries" through damaged wood. The galleries are smooth and precise (like their name--carpenter ant). They will also nest indoors in crack and crevices, attics, hollow doors, and numerous other places. A diet consist of animal and plant foods. They will feed on other insects, any human food, and honeydew produced on plants.
Method of Infestation: Carpenter ants may enter a home via tree limbs that touch a structure. This is used as a highway back and forth from the main nest (outdoors) to a satellite nest (indoors). They may be brought in on fire wood. Carpenter ants will enter a home sometimes just on the quest of food.
Management: A thorough inspection for a primary nest and a secondary nest is a must. Proper treatment depends on the location of these nests. A professional pest control technician knows the areas to inspect and treat. Depending on the location, the entire home, from the attic to the perimeter might need treating. Finally, a follow-up and maintenance service should be established discouraging future infestations.
