Black carpenter ant

What does Black carpenter ant look like?

A large dull-black ant, 6–13 mm, with a single waist node, an evenly rounded back, and a fringe of golden hairs on the abdomen.

Is Black carpenter ant dangerous?

It can give a minor bite but isn't venomous. Unlike termites it doesn't eat wood — it excavates damp or rotting wood to nest, which over time can mean structural damage.

Commonly confused with

• Termites: straight (not elbowed) antennae, no narrow waist, equal-length wings

What should I do about Black carpenter ant?

Trace them to the moisture source or nest and fix water damage; bait or treatment may be needed for the colony.