Carpenter Ant

Camponotus pennsylvanicus is the largest ant in eastern North America (workers 7-13 mm, queens 18 mm) and one of the most economically significant structural pests in the temperate world. Unlike termites, carpenter ants do NOT eat wood — they excavate it for nesting, producing characteristic smooth galleries free of mud and frass. The species typically nests in wood that is already softened by moisture, decay, or fungal damage; they exploit roof leaks, damp window frames, sill plates, and the bases of porches. A mature colony reaches 10,000-15,000 workers and may take 3-6 years to develop. Satellite colonies (containing brood + workers but not the queen) are commonly established in nearby structures, making whole-property treatment necessary. Carpenter ants forage at night, traveling up to 100 m from the nest to feed on aphid honeydew, dead insects, and household sweets/protein. They communicate via pheromone trails and stridulation. Genus Camponotus contains over 1,000 species worldwide, ranging from the temperate-forest C. pennsylvanicus to the tropical C. gigas (Borneo, world's largest worker ant at 28 mm).