Q: Should I worry about finding a few carpenter ants inside our house?
A: Usually not. At certain times of the year carpenter ant nests located outside, but near houses, release large numbers of winged ants (left, above) that are capable of flying in through open doors and windows. The presence of these ants indoors is no reason for concern. If more than a few ants are found indoors, however, there may be a nest, or nests, in the walls.
Q: Should I worry about finding a few carpenter ants outdoors?
A: No. In many areas carpenter ants (Camponotus spp.) are very common. It is therefore not unusual to encounter these large ants outdoors. The key point here is if they seem to be moving in a directed way toward or away from the house. This "trailing" behavior may indicate a nest located inside. Otherwise, finding ants outside should be no concern (see Related Articles below).
The following questions come mainly from homeowners concerned about seeing these large ants around their homes.
