Are Carpenter Ants a Problem During the Winter Months?

This winter you may have your guard down when it comes to pests because it is cold and they don’t come around during the cold months, right? This is unfortunately far from the truth. Just like you are cold and don’t venture out unless you have to, pests are also trying to make their way into your warm home to escape the cool temperatures. Eagle Pest Services is here to talk about carpenter ants and their level of activity during the winter.

Where do Carpenter Ants Go in the Winter

You may be wondering if you need to worry about carpenter ants during the winter. This destructive ant is a pest that shouldn’t be left to their own devices or you could end up really paying for it in the end. Here is one thing you should know about carpenter ants, they do hibernate, but only if they have to. If their body temperature drops too low, they will start functioning at a slower rate and will seal off their colony which is always located underneath the frost line. Once temperatures rise, they will be out in full swing again. Because hibernation is a possibility for these pests, they will eat a large amount of food to prepare for the possibility of such a long rest.

Carpenter Ants Can Survive the Winter Without Hibernation

Carpenter ants can survive if they have two things, food and warmth. When these two things are present, you can bet your money they will be working away without a second thought. Remember, carpenter ants don’t actually eat wood; they build their nests in it. They will be looking for food elsewhere and that could be in your home. The best bet you have of keeping carpenter ants, is to not provide them with a solid food supply.

Signs of a Carpenter Ant Infestation

You don’t always see ants marching one by one in your home and out of your pantry closet. It would be easy to pinpoint a carpenter ant problem if that were the case. Instead, you should look for other signs that they might be present in your structure. When they are present, you will be able to spot holes they have made in the nooks and crannies of your home to find food. Around these holes you will more than likely notice that sawdust is present as well. If the colony is large enough, you may be able to hear them working tirelessly within the inside of your walls. It will sound like a rustling behind your walls.

How to Get Rid of Carpenter Ants

If you think you have a carpenter ant problem, don’t hesitate to get professional help. Eagle Pest Services provide the necessary tools and training to get rid of carpenter ants before they do any more damage to your home. If left untreated, the colony will continue to grow and so will the damage caused by these destructive creatures. Having professional help is the key to getting rid of any carpenter ant problem. Call today!