What type of wood do carpenter ants prefer for nesting?

Carpenter ants exhibit a clear preference for soft, moist wood when establishing their nests. This type of wood is often found in locations that have been exposed to moisture, making it easier for these insects to excavate and create their nesting galleries. The moisture softens the wood, allowing the ants to tunnel through it more effortlessly as they carve out their nests.

Additionally, soft wood provides the ideal environment for these ants to thrive, as it is often associated with structural damage and decay, which attracts them. This contrast with other materials, such as metal or plastic, illustrates why carpenter ants do not prefer those—as they cannot nest in these ineligible materials at all. Similarly, dry wood or wood treated with chemicals is not suitable for their nesting needs because dry wood lacks the moisture that facilitates their tunneling activities, and chemical treatments can deter or harm the ants.