.Carpenter ants feed on a wide variety of foods including the honeydew created by plant feeding insects such as aphids, scales and mealybugs. In the spring, mature colonies produce winged reproductive ants, called swarmers that fly out to start new colonies. Satellite colonies are often found in our homes, so homeowners may see large flying ants in their houses at night. These ants are very difficult to control.
Identification
Size: Up to 5/8 inch long
Color: Varies from black, brown and black, red and black, to light brown.
Habits
The main colony must have a constant source of moisture to survive. Usually the colony is located in dead wood outside (dead limbs, tree holes, stumps, landscaping timber). Indoors colonies nest in areas where there is a water leak or an overly wet, poorly ventilated crawl space or attic. In homes, satellite colonies can be found in any suitable void (hollow doors, curtain rods) , under or in insulation. The ants in these satellite colonies set up trunk trails between the main colony to satellite colonies. Foraging ants can be seen easily along these trails, however, the trunk trails can occur beneath the ground following tree roots
Tips for Control
General tips for limiting ant infestation:
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