Carpenter ants have been reported in high numbers in Houston, TX this season. It seems as if every other call is regarding Carpenter Ants! Though they are not as intimidating as Termites, Carpenter Ants can still cause some damage to your home. These pests are known for their wood-destroying habits, and can cause costly damage to homes and other structures if left unchecked. Thankfully, there are a few things you can do to help keep these critters at bay.
One of the best ways to prevent carpenter ants from taking up residence in your home is to keep your property clean and free of debris. These insects are attracted to wood that is moist or has been damaged by rot, so it’s important to repair any leaks or water damage as soon as possible. You should also trim back any trees or shrubs that are touching your home, as carpenter ants will use these as bridges to gain access to your roof.
If you do find carpenter ants inside your home, the first step is to identify the source of the infestation. Once you’ve located the nest, you can begin treating it with a variety of insecticides. If the nest is located in an inaccessible area, you may need to call in a professional pest control company to take care of the problem.
What Do Carpenter Ants Look Like?
Carpenter ants are large ants that range in size from 1/4 to 1/2 inch long. These pests are black or dark brown in color and have a distinctively shaped head. Carpenter ants also have wings, although they cannot fly.
What Do Carpenter Ants Eat?
Carpenter ants are most commonly found near sources of food. These pests feed on a variety of things, but are especially fond of sweets. Carpenter ants will also eat other insects, as well as the wood they tunnel through.
Where Do Carpenter Ants Live?
Carpenter ants typically nest outdoors in dead or dying trees. These insects will also build their nests in stumps, fence posts, and other pieces of wood that are in contact with the ground. If carpenter ants gain access to your home, they will build their nests in any voids or cavities they can find. These pests are especially fond of nesting in insulation, wall voids, and crawl spaces.
What Are The Signs of An Infestation?
The most common sign of a carpenter ant infestation is the presence of winged ants inside your home. These insects are typically seen in late spring or early summer as they swarm to mate. Carpenter ants will also leave behind piles of wood chips, which is a telltale sign that these pests are present.
How To Treat Carpenter Ants
The best way to get rid of carpenter ants is to eliminate the source of the infestation. If you can find and destroy the nest, the rest of the colony will eventually die off. This can be difficult to do on your own, so you may need to call in a professional pest control company to help.
By following these simple tips, you can help keep carpenter ants from becoming a nuisance in your home. If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to contact CPL Pest Control for more information. Call 281-683-6737!
