Florida carpenter ants are one of the largest ant species in the state, easily recognizable by their reddish-brown to black coloration. Unlike termites, these ants don’t eat wood. Instead, they tunnel through it to create nests, often infesting homes and other structures. Carpenter ants are most active at night and are commonly found in moist or decaying wood, making Florida’s humid environment ideal for their growth.
Carpenter ants are much larger than other common household ants, measuring around 1/4 to 1/2 inch in length. Their bodies are typically black, red, or a combination of both. You’ll often find them near wooden structures or inside walls, where they create smooth tunnels. If you notice sawdust-like material, known as frass, near wood, it’s a sign of carpenter ant activity.
Florida carpenter ants are nocturnal, which means they are most active after dark. They prefer moist, decaying wood for nesting, such as fallen trees, dead branches, or even damp areas within your home like attics, wall voids, or windowsills. Unlike termites, carpenter ants don’t consume wood, but their tunneling can cause significant structural damage over time if left unchecked.
The ants will forage for food outdoors, feeding on sweet substances like honeydew from aphids, as well as proteins from other insects. However, they can enter homes in search of food, particularly in kitchens or near food storage areas.
Here are some common signs that carpenter ants may be present in your home:
Piles of sawdust-like debris near wood, which are waste materials from their tunneling.
Seeing large ants active at night inside or around your home.
You may hear faint rustling sounds in walls or wooden structures where they are nesting.
The appearance of winged carpenter ants inside your home can be a sign of a mature colony preparing to expand.
To reduce the likelihood of a carpenter ant infestation, it’s crucial to address moisture issues and remove decaying wood. Here are a few steps you can take:
Dealing with a carpenter ant infestation requires eliminating both the parent nest and any satellite nests. The key is locating the nests, which are often hidden within walls, attics, or other inaccessible areas. Once identified, treatment methods may include:
Carpenter ant baits are effective in attracting foragers, who will carry the bait back to the colony to eliminate it at its source.
Applying targeted insecticides directly into nests or entry points can eradicate the colony.
Addressing the underlying moisture issue is critical to prevent re-infestation.
DIY methods can sometimes be effective for small infestations, but large colonies often require professional pest control services to ensure complete elimination.
If you suspect carpenter ants are damaging your property, it’s essential to act quickly. Our expert pest control technicians have the knowledge and tools to locate and eliminate carpenter ant infestations efficiently. We use advanced baiting systems and treatments designed to target both visible and hidden colonies, ensuring long-term protection for your home.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and protect your home from Florida carpenter ants 239-877-4041
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