Do carpenter ants live in Texas?
Carpenter ants are a common pest throughout the southern United States, including Texas. Typically, they make their first appearances as the weather begins to turn in late winter. As early spring brings warmer weather, they begin their mating cycle and establish new colonies.
What is a carpenter ant?
Carpenter ants are social insects and live in colonies made of different forms of ants or “castes.” Mature colonies contain winged male and female forms (reproductives), sterile female workers of various sizes, and a wingless 9/16 inch long queen. Winged forms swarm during May through late July.
How many queens do carpenter ants have?
Each colony has only one functional queen, except in mature colonies during the swarming season. Carpenter ants can be yellowish red, solid black, or a combination of black, red, and reddish orange.