Ants are everywhere, from your kitchen to your backyard. But have you ever wondered if ants eat wood? Some carpenter ants, like those found in wooden structures, have habits and interactions with wood that may concern homeowners. The guide will help you in your quest to learn about the wood eating ant, its behavior, and home protection from it.

Do Ants Live in Walls?

Yes, many varieties of ants, and even little black ants can build a nest inside the walls. The walls provide considerable protection from outside surroundings for the space inside. If you hear the faint rustling noises and see ants coming out of electrical sockets, these could be signs of an ant nest in the wall.

Do Ants Eat Wood?

To answer the question directly, no, most ants do not actually eat wood. Instead, some species, like carpenter ants, chew through wood as a means of building their nests. They do not digest the wood like termites, rather, they spit it out as small pieces of wood shavings called “frass.” This may sometimes confuse people into thinking that ants consume wood.

So, can ants eat wood? Plainly put, the answer is no, but wood is damaged by some species of ants to make room for colonies. If you find piles of sawdust in any part of your household, you need to know there is likely an infestation.

Why Do Ants Target Wood?

Ants are quite resourceful animals that choose places that are warm, safe, and well-accessible to food. This is particularly true for moist wood due to the fact that it is soft and easier to dig compared to dry wood. The reasons you can find small ants that eat wood inside or around your home are:

1. Moisture Problems: Damping wood in walls, porches, or beams would serve as a prime target.
2. Cracks and Gaps: Ants inside walls find their way in because the places are not sealed many times.
3. Food Nearby: As with any ants, they require food to survive. Any crumb or spill may be inviting enough for them to stay nearby.

Tiny Ants That Eat Wood

While the most common ants associated with wood damage are carpenter ants, small black ants may also be found in or near wood. These ants are not usually responsible for direct wood damage but may be observed around damp or decaying areas.

What Do Small Black Ants Eat?

Unlike carpenter ants, little black ants in the house eat a variety of materials, including sugary and greasy foods. However, they are mistaken as wood-damaging ants due to their presence inside the wooden structures.

What Are Carpenter Ants?

Carpenter ants are large ants known for nesting in wood. Unlike termites, they don’t consume the wood they damage. Instead, they hollow it out to create galleries for their colonies. These ants often target moist or decayed wood because it’s easier to chew through.

Do Carpenter Ants Eat Wood?

No, carpenter ants do not actually eat wood. However, they cause serious damage by carving out tunnels and nests. If you have ants inside walls, it might be a sign of carpenter ants setting up their home.

Preventing Ant Infestations

You can prevent ant infestation in your home by taking some proactive steps. Seal off any entry points—cracks and gaps in walls, windows, and door frames. This prevents ants from entering indoor spaces, especially into your walls. Addressing moisture problems holds the same level of importance. Repair leaks and replace damp or decayed wood. This will make your home less attractive to ants that like moist environments.

Keeping cleanliness going is another point of effect. Removing crumbs and spills and storing food well eliminates entry in search of nutrition for your home. Ant Repellents or natural deterrents at areas where entry could occur will act as barriers. These measures create a physical and chemical shield, which will ensure your place gets less invaded. A combination of these preventive measures keeps unwanted ant activity away from your homes.

FAQs 

Q: Do black ants eat wood?

A: No, black ants do not eat wood. They may chew their way through to make passageways or nests, but they don’t digest or eat it.

Q: Do ants like wood?

A: Ants, especially carpenter ants, prefer wood for nesting, particularly if it’s damp or decayed. However, they don’t eat the wood; they only excavate it.

Q: Can ants build nests in walls?

A: Yes, ants can build nests inside walls, especially if there are cracks, damp wood, or a nearby food source. 

Q: What should I do if I see little black ants in the house?

A: If you are seeing little black ants in the house, check for sources of entry, such as breaks or moist areas. Their infestation is not via eating wood, but also building their nests in damp atmospheres. 

Conclusion

Carpenter ants are very destructive. They tunnel into wood to nest. They don’t eat wood. Knowing how to identify an infestation, such as tiny ants that eat wood or ants inside walls, is key to preventing further damage. You can minimize the possibility of an ant infestation by keeping your home clean and dry. 

Need Help with Ants? Contact Us Today!

Is your wooden wall or any other structure being ruined by ants? Don’t wait anymore. Reach out immediately to BestAtPest for any inspection or more information. Let us keep your house safe and ant-free!