In spring, we start seeing the reproductive phase of the carpenter ant with wings. Both males and females develop wings for seeking mates.

One of the most common species of ants in Maryland, and also one of the largest in size, is the black carpenter ant (Camponotus pennsylvanicus).

In spring, we start seeing the reproductive phase of the carpenter ant with wings. Both males and females develop wings for seeking mates. After mating, the wings are dropped and the ants try to find damp wood locations to build nests. Unlike termites, which eat wood, carpenter ants excavate galleries for their nests, preferring wood with high moisture content.

Dead or rotting trees are most often the locations for carpenter ant nests. In houses, damp areas around windows, roof eaves and porches can become carpenter ant habitat.

Seeing winged carpenter ants in and around the home does not necessarily indicate there is a nest in the house. Most winged ants seeking mates die before establishing a nest.

Better indicators of a nest in the house are when carpenter ants without wings are seen in the home during early spring, late fall and winter.

Article by FCFCDB

Nature Notes for 5/15/2011