The carpenter ant is a large member of the ant family, measuring 6 to 13 mm (1/4" to 1/2"). Colour is either black or black with red. Antennae are elbowed and they have large heads with strong mandibles (jaws) used for chewing. Reproductive forms are winged.

Yes. Because carpenter ants tunnel in wood to build their colonies, an infestation can cause serious structural damage if left unchecked.

You are most likely to see swarms of winged (reproductive) carpenter ants in May and June as this is their mating season.

Carpenter ants prefer moist areas and may construct their nests anywhere in the home including walls, ceilings, attics, doors, sills, shingles and insulation. Carpenter ants are most active during the night when they forage for food.

Yes. Since carpenter ants are attracted to foods such as honey, jelly, fruit and meat, they can carry disease germs from one area to another. Although they do not sting, they can inflict bites.

Carpenter ants are social insects, living in colonies. Within the colony, winged reproductives are not produced until the colony is established, which takes about two to three years. After mating, the winged reproductives leave the colony to establish new ones. Once established, an average colony contains 2,000 to 3,000 carpenter ants.

Yes. Warm, moist weather presents ideal conditions for carpenter ant colonies to establish themselves.

The presence of worker ants in your home is one of the first indications of an establishing carpenter ant colony. Check all areas where you suspect moisture. The presence of frass (chewed wood similar to sawdust) is an indication of an active nest. Any flying insect in the home is cause for concern and a professional in pest control should be consulted.

The elimination of moist conditions by providing good ventilation and isolating wood from any direct contact with the soil will aid in carpenter ant prevention. Foods should be kept in sealed containers and areas where food is stored kept free of spillage or crumbs. Eliminate old lumber, logs and stumps from around your property and do not store firewood inside the building. In the case of new construction, only properly treated lumber should be used.

Both the detection and elimination of carpenter ants can be a difficult and lengthy process. It is recommended that an Abell service technician be contacted to eliminate pests such as carpenter ants.