Carpenter Ant

Identification

Large black or red-and-black ants, 1/4 to 1/2 inch long, that excavate smooth tunnels in damp or decaying wood to build nests. Unlike termites, they don't eat wood — they push out small piles of sawdust-like debris (frass) near entry points. Winged reproductives ('swarmers') emerging indoors in spring are a strong sign of an established nest.