I’ve spotted some larger ants inside my home that I think are carpenter ants. As a new, first-time homebuyer, I’m not sure how big of an issue tha...
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Carpenter ants inside home #834715
Asked June 09, 2023, 11:11 AM EDT
I’ve spotted some larger ants inside my home that I think are carpenter ants. As a new, first-time homebuyer, I’m not sure how big of an issue that is and if it’s worth paying $300 for a pest control treatment. The Extension site on carpenter ants mentions that they can potentially damage homes. If I’ve seen a couple ants inside each day, is that a normal occurrence in June or could it be indicative of a bigger issue and possibly some damage in the house (could they be nesting in walls etc.)? I do have an old stump near the house, so I don’t know if that could be a nesting spot. I also have a magnolia tree infested with magnolia scale, which creates honeydew; the Extension site mentions carpenter ants are attracted to honeydew, so I don’t know if that’s a possible factor as well. As a first-time homeowner, I’m just looking for objective advice before I contact a pest control company. Thanks for your help!
Hennepin CountyMinnesota
Expert Response
Hi Kelly,
Do not panic. I have had carpenter ants in a couple of my homes and the walls did not collapse. I think you probably have them. They likely live in the tree stump. You may observe a line of them coming and going (into your house) from the stump.
Boric acid is easy too find and very useful. Try and find the nest. I'm guessing it is your tree stump and that's where I would start with some boric acid bait. Keep it in a container that pets can't get into. I would put out several baits.