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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 County Minnesota

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. 

https://www.forbes.com/home-improvement/pest-control/get-rid-of-carpenter-ants/

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.


Good luck,

Sally Granath

MG St. Louis County


An Ask Extension Expert Replied June 11, 2023, 9:48 PM EDT

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