Where do carpenter ants typically build their nests?

Carpenter ants are known for their behavior of nesting in soft or moist wood, especially wood that has begun to decay. This preference is primarily due to their need for softer materials that are easier to excavate and manipulate when creating their nests. Decaying wood is often more vulnerable to damage from moisture and fungal activity, making it a suitable environment for the ants to establish their colonies.

The presence of moisture in the wood is particularly attractive to carpenter ants as it supports the development of the colony and helps in sustaining the queen and her brood. Moreover, soft wood that has been compromised by decay provides the necessary conditions for carpenter ants to expand their nests effectively. Hence, this characteristic of nesting in soft, moist, and decayed wood directly correlates with their biological and ecological needs.