A large native carpenter ant.

Native status: Native to eastern North America

§ Quick facts

SizeBody 5–10 cm; wingspan 7–13 cm
Weight2–4 g
LifespanAdults 1 year
OrderHemiptera
FamilyBelostomatidae

§ Encyclopedia

The black carpenter ant is one of the largest and most common species of carpenter ant native to the central and eastern United States as well as eastern Canada.

Source: Wikipedia — Black carpenter ant Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

§ Identification

Field marks. Large black ant with reddish-brown head; smooth heart-shaped abdomen; three thorax segments; bent ("elbowed") antennae.

Similar species. Other Camponotus species (different sizes, colors). Carpenter ant ID often requires examination.

Voice. Stridulation (some species).

§ Diet & behavior

Diet. Adult ants, small flies, occasionally other insects.

Behavior. Among the largest ants in North America. Excavates galleries in soft, moist wood (rotting trees, structural lumber damaged by water). Does NOT eat wood — only burrows through it for nesting; sawdust ("frass") accumulates at colony entrances. Major structural pest of homes; identifiable by tunnels that follow wood grain. Colonies of 2,000–4,000 workers; can persist 5–7 years.

§ Range

Eastern North America

§ Habitat

Forests, suburban areas

§ Threats

Pesticide use.

§ Conservation status

According to the IUCN Red List, the black carpenter ant is currently classified as Least Concern.

§ What helps

Skip pesticides.

Support our work More ways to help

§ Further reading

§ Sources cited

  • BugGuide
  • AntWeb
  • University of Florida IFAS Extension