Question: I keep getting large black, look like big ants, some have wings in my bathroom. they do not look like termites. they bite, one stung or bit me on the foot. They only seem to be in the 2nd floor bathroom. Any idea”s for me on what they are/

ANSWER

These are probably carpenter ants.  Most are large black ants, though some be red or a combination of red and black. Most will swarm in the spring. They feed on other insects and honeydew from aphids on plants.

^{carpenter ants in the ground}

Carpenter ants like to nest in wood that has been  damaged from moisture, though they do not eat the wood. If there is a nest in the house, it is because there is wood damaged from moisture somewhere in the home:

• in the bathroom from a tub or shower that is not draining correctly or overflows often
• a porch that holds moisture
• a leaky roof leak
• a wet door frame (rain)
• a spout or gutter that does not work

Carpenter ants tend to be active inside in the spring.  Look for them in the kitchen and  other areas of the home in February and March. There may be a nest in the house. Later in the spring, they may go outdoors, however this does not mean that they have been controlled. Sometimes the nest is outdoors and they are just foraging for food indoors.

Try to locate the source of the nest. Inspect the house for moisture damaged wood. Fix the moisture problem and in the meantime the nest can be removed or sprayed.

If you cannot find a nest, use liquid baits, though most baits will work if you place them near the foraging ants.This process takes time, but it will get to the queen in the colony. This is the best method to use, killing the worker ants with sprays is not really effective.

carpenter ant close up