It is usually in spring when folks in Lancaster or York see big black ants. Carpenter ants, as they are referred to by professionals, are not something to fool around with. These black ants are known to destroy wood by chewing it and removing it to make larger nest areas.

Sometimes the “frass,” or shavings they produce, can be seen on the floor inside or on the ground outside where the worker ants are depositing their construction waste.  Sometimes these shavings can be visible in certain trees where carpenter ants have chosen to nest above in holes and are throwing out their trash onto the ground below.

That frass is a sign to get professional help.