Big Black Ants in or around Your Home: What They Are & How to Get Rid of Them
While ants play an important role in nature as soil aerators and decomposers, they’re far less welcome inside your home. These tiny pests can quickly become a big problem, forming long trails into your pantry, pet food, and other areas where food is available.
If you’ve recently noticed large black ants inside your home or around your property, you’re not alone. Many homeowners deal with this issue, especially during warmer months.
So what are these big black ants, why are in and around in your home, and should you be concerned? Let’s break it down.
What Are Big Black Ants?
The large black ants you’re seeing are most likely black carpenter ants (Camponotus pennsylvanicus). These are one of the largest ant species in North America, with workers growing up to 12 mm and queens reaching up to 20 mm.
Unlike regular ants, carpenter ants are known for nesting in wood, which can lead to structural damage over time if left untreated.
Why Are Big Black Ants in My House?
There are a few common reasons carpenter ants may be inside your home:
1. They’re Exploring for Food
If you only see a few ants, they’re likely scouting for food and water. They can easily enter through small cracks, doors, or windows.
2. You May Have an Infestation
Seeing large numbers of ants could indicate a nest nearby, or even inside your home. Carpenter ants tunnel through wood, which can weaken structures over time.
3. Swarmers Are Looking to Expand
If the ants have wings, they’re swarmers. This means there’s a mature colony nearby, and they’re searching for new places to build nests. ( Yes, reproductive carpenter ants (kings and queens) have wings, while worker ants do not. These winged "swarmers," or alates, emerge from mature colonies in spring to mate and establish new nests, often indicating a hidden, mature infestation in wood. They have two pairs of wings, with the front pair larger than the back. )
Does Killing Ants Attract More?
Surprisingly, yes.
When you kill carpenter ants, their bodies release a chemical called oleic acid, often referred to as a “death pheromone.” This signals nearby ants that something has happened, which can cause them to:
Investigate the area
Send more worker ants
Reinforce existing trails
So instead of solving the problem, crushing a few ants can sometimes lead to seeing even more.
How to Prevent and Get Rid of Big Black Ants
If you’re dealing with carpenter ants, here are some simple and effective ways to stop them:
Use Bait Traps
Ant bait traps are one of the most effective solutions. They attract ants with sugary substances, which the ants carry back to the colony, eventually eliminating the source.
Remove Food & Water Sources
- Store food in airtight containers
- Clean up crumbs and spills
- Fix leaky pipes and faucets
Ants are highly attracted to both food and moisture.
Get Rid of Wood & Yard Attractants
Outside your home:
- Remove rotting wood, stumps, or logs
- Keep firewood stored away from the house
- Trim branches touching your home
Eliminate Standing Water
Standing water inside or outside your home creates the perfect environment for ants. It can also soften wood, making it easier for carpenter ants to nest.
Seal Entry Points
Close off gaps around:
- Windows
- Doors
- Siding
Using caulk or foam sealant can help keep ants from getting inside.
Consider Barrier Treatments
Preventative treatments around your home can stop ants before they enter. For best results, professional pest control services are recommended.
Does EcoShield treat ant infestations?
Yes, we do! In fact, the only way to ensure you banish carpenter ants for good is to utilize a reputable pest control service like EcoShield Pest Solutions. Our 100% guaranteed service will save you the stress of DIY solutions and recurring ant problems associated with them. EcoShield's proactive approach to ant control not only treats the primary pest issue but also focuses on preventing ants and other pests.
Call us today for a free, no-obligation estimate and take back your home! Call us at: (888) 744-1284 or fill out the form on this page.
Big Black Ants FAQ
What are big black ants?
They are typically black carpenter ants, a large species known for nesting in wood and potentially causing structural damage.
Does killing ants attract more ants?
Yes, due to the release of pheromones that alert other ants.
How long do bait traps take to work?
Most bait traps begin working within 24–48 hours as ants spread the bait throughout the colony.
If you’re seeing large black ants regularly, it’s best to act quickly before a small problem turns into costly damage.