Ants in Vermont. Facts and Control.
Carpenter Ants
Carpenter ants can be a serious concern in Vermont, where they often seek out moist or decaying wood to build their nests. Their worker ants vary in size from roughly 1/8 inch to 1/2 inch, with queens typically measuring a bit larger. Though many carpenter ants are black, there are species that display red, red-and-black, or brown coloration.
Contrary to popular belief, these insects do not actually consume wood. Instead, they forage primarily at night for sugary foods and other insects. When reproductive ants (often called “swarmers”) mate, they shed their wings. The fertilized female selects a nesting site and begins carving tunnels and galleries for her eggs. Carpenter ant colonies can grow quite large—ranging anywhere from about 10 individuals to over 15,000.
One characteristic sign of carpenter ants is their tendency to excavate wood rather than eat it, leading to the production of sawdust-like material. Homeowners in Vermont may also notice small pieces of foam insulation or debris near nesting sites. Main colonies can take around five years to mature and are typically located in wooded areas, while sub-colonies (or satellite colonies) branch off once the main colony grows large enough to require additional space. Moisture is a key factor in where they settle, so spots near leaky pipes, damp window frames, door frames, kitchens, or bathrooms are prime locations.
Because carpenter ants damage structures by hollowing out wood, they’re more than just a minor nuisance—over time, they can compromise the integrity of a home. This damage often goes unnoticed until it becomes severe, and unfortunately, most homeowner insurance policies do not cover the associated repair costs. Prevention is therefore critical.
Pulaski Pest Control recommends a seasonal inspection and treatment approach specifically tailored to carpenter ant biology. By scheduling regular visits, technicians can spot potential issues early—before these wood-destroying insects establish themselves. Such a proactive strategy can save Vermont homeowners significant hassle and expense by keeping carpenter ants under control all spring and summer.
Odorous House Ants
Odorous house ants get their name from the strong, coconut-like smell they produce when crushed. They’re known for their tenacity in locating food and water, often targeting areas in homes or offices where moisture accumulates—such as near hot water pipes, heaters, or leaky sinks. While these ants are especially drawn to sweet substances like fruit juices and pastries, they’re not picky eaters and will consume grease, dead organic material, and even aphid honeydew when outside.
A distinctive trait of odorous house ants is their habit of moving nests whenever conditions change—severe rainfall or flooding can force them to relocate quickly. Indoors, they commonly nest close to warm, damp areas or even in wood previously damaged by termites. They are frequently spotted in kitchens or food-preparation zones, where they forage for meals. Outdoors, they might be found under rocks, in piles of firewood, or 
within mulch.
Although these ants do not transmit diseases or bite, they can contaminate food supplies and cause persistent nuisances around the house. One reason they become so widespread is their ability to lay down scent trails—undetectable to humans—leading from food sources back to their nests. To deter them, promptly clean up spills, eliminate any standing water, and maintain a tidy pantry and kitchen area. Their craving for sugar means even small crumbs can attract a large number of these pests.
For Vermont homeowners struggling with odorous house ants, Pulaski Pest Control provides solutions designed to keep these determined invaders at bay. By focusing on moisture reduction, proper sanitation, and targeted treatments, you can protect your home or workplace from the relentless search for food and water that drives odorous house ants.