As an arborist, I often remind homeowners that nature has its own way of sending signals—and carpenter ants are one of them. Spotting these large, black ants around a tree isn’t just a nuisance; it can be an early warning sign that something is wrong internally.

Carpenter ants don’t eat wood like termites, but they do hollow it out to build their nests. That means they’re usually not the cause of tree damage—they’re a symptom. These ants prefer moist, decaying wood, so their presence often points to internal rot, cavities, or structural weaknesses inside the tree.

Why This Matters:
If you see carpenter ants crawling up and down a tree trunk or emerging from holes, it could mean the tree is already compromised. The ants are likely taking advantage of soft, decayed wood caused by fungal infections, storm damage, or old wounds that never properly healed.

What to Do:
Rather than reaching straight for the insecticide, call a certified arborist for a full inspection. We can assess whether the tree is structurally sound, identify the extent of decay, and determine if pruning, treatment, or even removal is necessary.

In short, carpenter ants are more than just pests—they’re messengers. Paying attention to them can help you catch tree issues early, before they become hazardous or irreversible.