As spring brings along warmer temperatures and beautiful greenery, carpenter ants become increasingly active. Unlike typical household ants, these wood-boring insects tunnel through timber, which can weaken your homeโs structure over time. If you start noticing large ants indoors, especially ones with wings, it may be time to arrange a professional inspection.
Not sure whether the ants in your home are carpenter ants? Our guide will help you recognize their traits and understand their behavior.
Why Carpenter Ants Appear in Spring
As the weather warms, carpenter ants become more active in their search for food and moisture. Excess water from rain and melting snow softens wood, making it easier for them to create nesting sites.
One of the notable behaviors of the season is their nuptial flight. During this reproductive phase, winged ants, known as alates, take to the air to establish new colonies. Spotting swarms of flying ants near your home may indicate an expanding colony nearby.
How to Identify Carpenter Ants in Spring
Look for these distinguishing features:
- Large size (1/4 to 3/4 inch).
- Dark coloration, often black.
- Presence of winged alates during mating flights.
For a complete identification guide, visit our Carpenter Ant Pest ID resource.
Signs That Carpenter Ants May Be Nesting Nearby
While carpenter ants are present year-round, certain warning signs are more apparent in spring:
- Frequent sightings along exterior walls and your homeโs foundation
- Small piles of sawdust-like frass near damp or rotting wood, especially after rain
- Groups of ants around woodpiles, tree stumps, and decaying logs
Preventing Carpenter Ants This Spring
With rising temperatures and increased humidity, spring creates ideal conditions for carpenter ants to thrive. Taking early precautions can help reduce the chances of an infestation. Start with these preventive measures:
- Address moisture issues by repairing leaks, improving ventilation, and ensuring gutters direct water away from your home to keep wood dry and less attractive to ants.
- Store firewood properly by keeping it elevated and at a safe distance from your home to discourage nesting.
- Seal potential entry points by inspecting doors, windows, and foundation cracks for gaps and closing them off to block ant access.
When to Call a Professional
Have you spotted carpenter ants or signs of their activity? Acting quickly can help prevent potential damage. Colonies grow rapidly in spring, but early intervention with professional treatment can keep the issue from getting worse. Visit our ant services page to learn about treatment options and schedule an inspection.
Carpenter Ant Resources
At Arrow Exterminating, weโre committed to helping homeowners stay ahead of carpenter ant problems. Taking proactive steps now can make a big difference in keeping these wood-damaging pests away. Contact us for a free inspection, and use this checklist to help protect your home.
Spring Maintenance Checklist:
- Seal cracks and openings in your foundation
- Inspect your home for damp or rotting wood
- Trim shrubs and tree branches that touch your house
- Ensure proper drainage directs water away from your foundation
- Schedule a professional inspection
Schedule a Spring Carpenter Ant Inspection Today!
