Carpenter Ants at a Glance

In Canada we have many different species of carpenter ants that vary in colour and size. Sometimes it can take the well-trained eye of a professional to identify a particular species. What's the big deal? Carpenter ants are known for their destructive nature. They burrow into wooden structures to build their nests, not to eat the wood itself. One obvious sign of a carpenter ant infestation is sawdust formations. This is why they are often confused for termites, which also destroy wood. How can I tell if I have a Carpenter Ant problem? Outside the home the carpenter ant can typically be found inside rotting wood such as tree stumps, wood piles and other wooden areas. But indoors, these ants are known to love the areas around windows and doors, and other areas where moisture is plentiful and the wood allows them to burrow their galleries. Carpenter Ants can gain entry to your home a number of ways:

• Through windows
• Gaps in walls
• On firewood carried into the home
• Overgrown trees

One way to prevent carpenter ants from finding their way into your home is to do frequent inspections. Do a check of window sills and door frames to make sure the wood is structurally sound and there's no rotting. Paying attention to any trees on the property and making note of sawdust piles where ants might be digging galleries is another visual tip to prevent these destructive pests from damaging your property.