How Small Can Carpenter Ants Be?
WouterDepending on the species, carpenter ants can be anywhere from 1/16″ to 1″ long. However, the size will vary within a colony. Typically, the largest ants, like the queen, are about 20 mm in length. The largest worker ants are about 12 mm long.
Carpenter ants are predators, and they eat a variety of foods, including honeydew, jelly, plant nectars, meat, syrup, grease, and other insects. They are not venomous, but they do cause damage to homes. The first stage of a carpenter’s life is the larvae stage, which lasts 14 to 21 days. During this time, the ants will shed their skin several times.
Carpenter ants usually nest in moist wood, and they will leave sawdust around their nests. The sawdust piles increase in size as the colony grows. They will use their formidable mandibles to defend their nests.
Carpenter ants are not venomous, but they are able to inject formic acid into wounds to help heal them. They also inject formic acid into the muscles of their wings to help them survive. The queen carpenter ant can metabolize her stored fat reserves to help her survive.
Carpenter ants can invade buildings through cracks and gaps, such as door and window frames. They are also commonly found in buildings that have been damaged by water, such as mold. They can also enter through expansion joints and plumbing penetrations. If you see ants in your home, it is important to contact a professional pest control service. If you wait too long, they can cause significant damage to your home.
