Brisbane home owners have a fair share of pests to deal with. From flying insects like mosquitos and wasps, to those that hide in the walls such as mice or termites; there is no shortage of unwanted visitors to worry about. One pest that is on the rise and has become an increasing problem to Brisbane home owners is Carpenter Ants. Though they seem less intimidating than their wood-devouring cousin--the notorious termite--they can cause serious damage if left unchecked. The good news is, carpenter ants are preventable with a bit of knowledge on their behaviour and some simple steps you can take.
What are Carpenter Ants?
Carpenter ants, scientifically named Camponotus, are a large ant species found across Australia. They can be distinguished from other ants by their size (they are considerably larger than other common ants), and their dark, reddish-brown to black colour. Carpenter ants are named as such for their habit of nesting in wooden structures, as they prefer to carve their nests into damp or rotting wood.
Carpenter Ants vs. Termites
Though they share similar habits, it is vital to distinguish carpenter ants from termites. Termites are far more destructive, as they consume wood for sustenance, causing severe structural damage. Carpenter ants, on the other hand, do not eat wood; they merely excavate it to create their nests. Nevertheless, a carpenter ant infestation can still cause substantial damage, particularly in older buildings or areas with water-damaged wood.
Why are Carpenter Ants a Problem in Brisbane?
In Brisbane, there are two primary reasons why carpenter ants have become such a troubling issue: conducive climate conditions and urbanization.
Climate Conditions: Brisbane is known for its subtropical climate, regularly encountering heavy rainfall and periods of high humidity. This dampness increases the likelihood of wood becoming susceptible to moisture and decay, providing an ideal nesting environment for carpenter ants.
Urbanization: As Brisbane continues to grow and expand, more and more homes are being built, often in close proximity to natural habitats like forests and parks. This encroachment leads to a higher likelihood of carpenter ants finding their way to human-made structures and nesting in moist, decaying wood.
The Combination of Factors: The combination of Brisbane's climate and constant urban development creates a perfect storm for carpenter ant infestations. The moist conditions increase the likelihood of damp and rotting wood in and around homes and businesses, while urbanization constantly offers new nesting opportunities for these industrious insects.
Potential Damage Caused by Carpenter Ants
Though they may be less destructive than termites, carpenter ants can still cause significant issues for homeowners and business owners in Brisbane. Large colonies may weaken wooden structures, and carpenter ants can infiltrate and damage items such as garden sheds, decks, and window frames. Furthermore, their presence can be unsettling and unhygienic, as they are known to scavenge for food and leave behind trails of sawdust-like debris from their excavation activities.
How to Prevent and Manage Carpenter Ant Infestations
To protect your property from carpenter ants, follow these preventative measures:
Regularly check for signs of water damage and dampness in and around your home.
Keep wooden structures well-maintained, painted or sealed, to reduce the likelihood of moisture penetration.
Clear vegetation away from your building to minimize the chances of carpenter ants finding their way inside.
Ensure that wooden structures, such as decks or fences, do not come into direct contact with soil.
Carpenter ants are mostly nocturnal, so you may need to inspect after dark using a flashlight.
If you suspect your property has a carpenter ant infestation, it is crucial to consult a professional pest control service to identify and manage the issue promptly.
Carpenter ants may not be the most destructive pests in Brisbane, but they pose a genuine threat to the integrity of wooden structures and can be a source of discomfort for residents and business owners. By understanding the behaviour of carpenter ants and taking preventative measures, you can reduce the odds of encountering these unwelcome and invasive insects in your home.
Protect your home from Carpenter Ant infestations. Don't let their presence grow into a bigger problem. Call Results Home Services now at Ph 3823 2500 and schedule an inspection today!