Carpenter Ants

Carpenter Ants are known for their impressive ability to excavate and create tunnels and galleries within wooden structures. Unlike termites, which consume wood as food, Carpenter Ants simply hollow out the wood to build nests and establish colonies. 

Carpenter Ants, though small in size, can have a significant impact on trees. As they create their nests, Carpenter Ants remove wood fibers, weakening the tree's integrity over time. This damage can compromise the strength and stability of the tree, making it more susceptible to breakage or collapse during strong winds or storms. This disrupts the flow of sap within the tree, hindering its ability to transport vital nutrients and water. 

When your tree has carpenter ants, there are several key indicators to look for. First and foremost, keep an eye out for the presence of small piles of sawdust near the base of the tree or on branches. Carpenter Ants create galleries and discard wood debris, known as frass, as they excavate tunnels within the tree. Another noticeable sign is the presence of small holes or openings on the trunk or branches, which serve as entry points for the ants. Additionally, look for weakened or dying branches, as carpenter ants prefer to infest trees that are already compromised. Insecticide can be sprayed to combat the Carpenter Ant problem.

If you have Carpenter Ants, Arbor Source Tree Experts can help. We will take all of the worry out of keeping your trees healthy and beautiful year round. Visit us at www.ArborSource.net to request a visit from our ISA Certified Arborist or call (832) 671-0331. 

Example of a Carpenter Ant.