How often have you wondered about the difference between carpenter ants and black ants? The difference may seem subtle, but understanding their size can help identify your unexpected houseguests.
Carpenter ants are notably larger than black ants, often towering over their tiny counterparts in size. How else do they differ? Keep reading to learn how to tell them apart.
Key Takeaways
- Carpenter ants are larger than black ants and cause structural damage by nesting in wood, unlike black ants.
- Black ants prefer sweet foods, while carpenter ants feed on dead insects, plant material, and human food scraps.
- Carpenter ants often leave sawdust near wooden structures, whereas black ants are spotted near food or entry points.
- Sealing entry points, targeted treatments, and professional help can prevent and manage ant infestations.
Carpenter Ants vs. Black Ants
In North America, carpenter ants (Camponotus spp.) and black ants (Lasius niger)may look similar, but key differences set these species of ants apart. To identify which type of ant you’re dealing with, consider this table on their size, behavior, diet, and more.
| Carpenter Ants | Black Ants | |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 0.25 – 0.5 inch | 0.06–0.08 inch |
| Physical Appearance | Heart-shaped head; black, dark brown, or reddish; smooth with single petiole | Uniformly black; slender body with rounded thorax |
| Behavior | Produces rustling sounds in wooden structures | Often found near accessible food sources |
| Nesting Habits | Excavates wood to create galleries; forms large colonies | Nests in soil, under rocks, or within wood; smaller colonies |
| Diet | Feeds on dead insects, plant materials, and human food scraps | Prefers sweet substances like honeydew |
| Foraging Patterns | Uses strong mandibles to carry larger items | Exploits food sources, often indoors |
How to Get Rid of Carpenter Ants and Black Ants
Identify the Infestation
Signs of an ant infestation differ depending on the species.
| Ant Species | Signs of Infestation |
|---|---|
| Carpenter Ants | Small piles of sawdust-like material near wooden structures as they hollow out wood for nesting. |
| Little Black Ants | Large numbers near food sources or entry points like basements or windowsills. |
Remove Food Sources
These common ants invade homes primarily in search of food.
Pet food, crumbs, and dead insects attract ants into living spaces. Keep food sealed in airtight containers. Frequently clean countertops, floors, and dining areas to avoid leaving food residue. Pay attention to pet food dishes and clean them regularly. Remove any small insects that may serve as food.
Depriving ants of their food supply weakens the black or carpenter ant colony, making them more susceptible to treatments.
Seal Entry Points
Ants can enter homes through small cracks and openings.
Check for gaps around windowsills, doors, and foundation walls. Use caulk or weather stripping to seal these entry points. Repair damaged screens, ensure windows close tightly, and inspect wall voids and utility entry points for ant activity.
Sealing these gaps helps maintain your home’s structural integrity, disrupts their pheromone trails, and reduces the risk of infestations.
Use Targeted Treatments
To tackle specific ant colonies, use targeted treatments designed for carpenter ants and black ants.
- Place Ant Baits: Use baits specifically designed for carpenter ants and black ants. Place them near ant trails or entry points to lure ants that will carry the bait back to the nest.
- Apply Bug Sprays: Use sprays or dust treatments in wall voids or wooden structures where carpenter ants nest. Follow product instructions carefully for effective application.
If DIY solutions fall short, consulting a pest control service can provide a more comprehensive strategy. Professional options include using dust or spray in wall voids or areas of significant ant activity.
Regular Home Maintenance
Regular cleaning and maintenance deter ant infestations and keep your home in optimal condition.
Indoors, check for leaks under sinks and roofs, as moist wood attracts ants. Organize clutter and store items in sealed containers to remove hiding spots. Keep spaces well-ventilated to reduce moisture buildup.
Outdoors, maintain a tidy yard by removing stumps, logs, and debris that could serve as potential nesting sites. Trim trees and shrubs to prevent aphid growth, which attracts ants, and remove natural bridges leading into your home.
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Is It Time to Call the Professionals?
When unwanted ants start to invade the comfort of your home, it’s time to act quickly. If over-the-counter sprays don’t work or ant trails persist, it might be time to contact a Reliant Pest Management.
Call us at (888) 912-5747 to bring back your peace of mind.
