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Another Unwanted House Guest
Meet the granddaddy of unwanted house guests! This is the carpenter ant. These are commonly found on summer days and are recognizable by their bulbous, black bodies. They remind my wife and me of black berries – and that’s a memorable story for another time!They are native of the Pacific Northwest and vital parts of our forested ecosystems. We have problems when they mistake the structural components of our houses for fallen trees and decide to help break down the organic materials.
If you see one, do not stress out. You may follow it if you have the curiosity and time for it, and see where it goes. Keeping your crawlspace dry and free of all conducive debris will reduce the enticement for their visits; in addition, remove all conducive debris like wood piles and yard waste piles from the side of your home. Keep all vegetation trimmed back from the siding of your houses since they will follow branch lines and can access your house this way as well. Pull back all bark and landscape materials at least six inches from the wood siding. Finally, keep an eye out for unusual insect activity with your house. If you see something suspicious, please give me a call and I am glad to help you figure it out!
