What Do Carpenter Ants Eat?
WouterDuring the fall and winter, the carpenter ants eat a lot of fat and carbs. They also bulk up on proteins. This helps them get ready for a productive year.
Carpenter ants are predators that feed on insects, small invertebrates, and plant juices. They prefer sweet foods such as syrup and honey. They may also eat dead insects and pet food.
Carpenter ants build nests outdoors, in rotting tree stumps or fallen branches. The nests are constructed over several years and contain eggs, larvae, and queen.
Carpenter ants are attracted to moist and rotting wood, and may also enter buildings through tree branches. They also use their powerful mandibles to defend their nests.
Carpenter ants usually feed on insects, but may also eat termites depending on the situation. Carpenter ants are also attracted to sweet foods, including honey, syrup, and jelly. They sometimes seek food during the day in spring and summer.
The queen feeds her eggs with stored nutrients and salivary gland secretions. After about 60 days, young ants begin scavenging for food in the colony. Eventually, they become full-grown workers.
Carpenter ants are able to forage up to 300 feet from their nest. They are able to travel this far because of pheromone trails. However, essential oils may interfere with these pheromone trails.
Carpenter ants eat aphids, which produce honeydew. They also eat other insects and plant juices. They can enter homes through cracks and holes in the foundation. They can also be attracted to firewood or brush piles.
