Carpenter ants are social insects like bees and termites. They live in colonies that normally contain one reproductive queen supported by hundreds, or even thousands of workers.  They are wood destroying members of the ant family, and are among the largest ants found in homes and other structures.  Carpenter ants chew galleries in wood for nesting, but they do not actually eat wood like termites.

Carpenter ants like to nest in soft, decaying wood, such as in rotting trees.  An infestation of carpenter ants indoors is usually an indication of a water leak or moisture problem.  In summer they may roam in for food; however, when seen in winter it's a safe bet they're nesting somewhere inside!

The black carpenter ant is the most common species in our area, however, other species are found as well.  Some carpenter ants are various combinations of red and black, while others are completely red or brown in color.