carpenter ants
There are 2 main species of carpenter ants in our region. These are
Modoc which are all black and Vicinus which have a black head and abodomen
and a red thorax(middle). There are at least 5 different sizes of ants
within the same colony. They range in size between ¼ inch and ¾ inch.
How do I know if I have a carpenter ant problem?
If you are finding clusters of winged reproductive ants in your house or
if you are finding foraging carpenter ants in your home between October and March, these are sure signs that carpenter ants have taken up residence in
your home. If you see a trail of carp ants going into your home under
the siding, or along a cable, phone or hydro line into your home, you
have a colony in your home.
What do I do if I have a carpenter ant problem?
The first thing you should do is observe where the ants are coming and
going from. This information will greatly help the technician who comes
to your home to solve your ant issue. If a colony of ants is disturbed
or uncovered during a renovation vacuum them up immediately. Do Not
Spray a household insecticide. This will only disperse the problem and
make it more difficult for a pest management professional to later solve.
Ant traps and drops will not eradicate carp ants from your home.
Do carpenter ants cause damage?
Yes. Carpenter ants, if left untreated, can cause significant structural
damage to your home. The option is yours, call a professional in and
spend a few hundred dollars to eradicate these insects, or wait and
spend thousands down the road on a costly renovation.
