Carpenter Ants in Georgia
Health RiskLow
Damage RiskHigh
NuisanceHigh
How to Identify Carpenter Ants
Carpenter ants are large social insects known for their strong mandibles, organized colonies, and ability to tunnel through wood for nesting.
- Actual Size 7 to 13 mm
- Characteristics Large ants with segmented bodies, narrow waists, and colors ranging from black to reddish black. They are known for tunneling through wood to create nesting galleries.
- Legs 6
- Antennae Yes
- Wings Only the reproductive ants develop wings
What Do Carpenter Ants Do?
Carpenter ants search for food sources such as sugars, insects, and household crumbs while traveling between nesting and foraging areas. As they expand their colonies, they excavate wood and can contribute to structural damage inside buildings.
- Larger social insects that live in organized colonies with workers, soldiers, and reproductive ants.
- They use their strong mandibles to tunnel through wood and create smooth nesting galleries.
- Unlike termites, carpenter ants do not eat wood and instead remove it while building nests.
- They commonly nest in damp, decaying, or moisture-damaged wood around homes and structures.
Where Do You Find Carpenter Ants?
This species of ant is frequently found in and around moist or damaged wood, as well as areas where humidity and decay provide ideal nesting conditions. Common places you’ll find carpenter ants include:
- Inside wall cavities and insulation
- Attics and upper levels of homes
- Window frames and door casings
- Damp or rotting wood around structures
- Wooden decks, porches, and siding areas
- Bathrooms and other damp indoor spaces
What Should I Do If I Have Ants in Georgia?
These ants do not spread disease, but they can damage wood as they tunnel and build nests, potentially weakening structures over time. If you’re dealing with carpenter ants, the following steps are recommended:
- Inspect your home for cracks, gaps, and other entry points, and seal them to prevent access.
- Locate and address any moisture problems, such as leaks, condensation, or poor drainage.
- Remove or replace any damp, damaged, or decaying wood around the structure.
- Trim trees and shrubs away from your home to limit access pathways for ants.
- Clear out leaf litter, mulch buildup, and yard debris near the foundation.
- Avoid stacking firewood or lumber directly against the house.
- Professional pest control services are the most reliable solution.
Top 5 FAQs About Carpenter Ants in Georgia
Do you have questions about carpenter ants? Read through our most frequently asked questions below. If you don’t find your answer here, feel free to call us or send an email.
Do carpenter ants eat wood?
No, they do not eat wood. They excavate it to build nests, often targeting damp or damaged areas.
Where are carpenter ants commonly found?
They are often found in moist or decaying wood, such as around windows, doors, roofs, attics, and wall voids.
Are carpenter ants dangerous?
They are not dangerous to humans in terms of disease, but they can cause structural damage over time.
Do carpenter ants bite?
Yes, they can bite if disturbed, but they are not considered aggressive or medically dangerous.
How do you get rid of carpenter ants?
Effective control involves locating and eliminating the nest, addressing moisture issues, sealing entry points, and using targeted treatments. Professional ant control is often needed to fully eliminate hidden colonies.
