Carpenter ants are commonly seen and among the most damaging of wood destroying insects. Working in Bellingham and Whatcom County as a home inspector, I often find evidence of their activity. The photo below is typical of ant shavings or frass and the shot is from a crawl space. All the black specks in the frass are bug parts -- dead ant comrades and morsels left over from dining.
This particular photo has a dead giveaway (no pun intended) that the culprits are carpenter ants. Note C. Modoc species black ant near the front of the footing at the bottom of the frass. When frass of that quantity is present, you know the ants have been damaging wood. But, when you see a pile of shavings like below, then they have been working for quite some time and damage will be significant.
Carpenter ants, like most wood destroying organisms, are attracted to damp or wet conditions. Here is another shot of this wet crawl space.
Often, to control carpenter ants, a homeowner must eliminate conducive conditions and, also, consult with a pest management professional who is qualified to apply a chemical treatment. Repair often involves locating, removing and replacing damaged wood with sound materials.
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