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If you’re here, you might be facing an invasion of annoying critters that go by the name of carpenter ants. These pests get their name from their next building where they dig tunnels inside of the wood. The ants may not eat the wood like termites, but they do cause damage chewing through the material to make their nests.

The bad news is that a mature western black carpenter ant colony is anywhere between 20,000 and 50,000 ants. Those are a lot of incessant pinchers going after your wooden floors.

What Do Carpenter Ants Look Like?

The ants can vary in size, typically between ½” to ⅝” long. Black carpenter ants are the most common, but they can come in variations of black and red.

Here are a few pest stats for the carpenter ant:

  • Colour: black, red or a variation
  • Legs: six
  • Shape: segmented, oval
  • Antennae: Yes
  • Region: Throughout the U.S. and Canada

Signs Of An Infestation

The only traces that carpenter ants leave behind besides seeing the ants themselves are small openings on the surface of the wood. It is through these holes that the pests expel sawdust-like shavings, pieces of insulation and insect body parts.

Seeing an accumulation of the debris near the wholes are a good indication that you uninvited guests.

Because these ants prefer softer wood, they are commonly associated with moisture problems. Look out for excess moisture, fungus, and soft, rotting wood in and around your home.

How To Get Rid Of Carpenter Ants

There are a few ways that you can try to manage these pests yourself, namely:

  • Eliminate sources of standing water or moisture
  • Cut back branches and other plants away from the house
  • Watch out for cracks or small openings around windows or at the bottom of doors
  • Seal all spaces with a silicone-based caulk
  • Store firewood and building materials away from your house

Should you suspect an infestation, we recommend giving us a ring. As licensed pest control specialists, we can assess the situation and suggest the best way to move forward, including carpenter ant extermination.

We have been keeping homes and families in Victoria, Duncan and Nanaimo pest-free since 2002. Old Island Pest Control is passionate about protecting you from all kinds of pests that go bump in the night. Contact us today, and we will make sure that any unwanted pests stop bothering you.