CARPENTER ANTS INFESTATION

Carpenter ants (Camponatus spp) are one of the largest members of the ant family. They could grow up to 13mm in length and are generally black although they have reddish or yellowish colored species. They have caste which includes the queen that bears the reproductive duties, to workers and swarmer’s (winged ants) who leave to develop new colonies.

EVIDENCE OF CARPENTER ANTS INFESTATION

Carpenter ants are known for one thing: their love for wood. Like termites, they easily attack wood as they are well adapted (The workers have strong mandibles). There are primarily attracted to wet or damaged wood. They do not actually eat the wood but rather use it as homes and for reproduction. The ants rather feed on insects or left over from human meals. They sneak through the wood and use as an avenue to attack the building leading to weakness of the structure and can gradually lead to eventual collapse.

An additional sign is the presence of wood debris that falls while the ants shave through the wood. Parts of dead ants can be seen also especially during molting and as a sign of nestling activity. Rustling sounds can also be heard as the ants go about their daily activities.

TREATMENTS OF CARPENTER ANT

Carpenter ants infestation can be very dangerous. Treatment starts with preventing their presence. Wet wood should not be found near the home and poorly built wood shouldn’t be used in buildings as these draw carpenter ants.

When you notice their presence, the first thing to do is to identify the nests of the ants. They should be carefully removed and then treated to avoid any lingering odor or debris caused by the ants.

It is important to enlist the help of Pointe Pest Control experts to ascertain the level of damage caused and to destroy the colonies completely and prevent future occurrences.