What type of wood do carpenter ants primarily use for shelter?

Carpenter ants primarily use soft, moist wood for shelter because this type of wood is easier for them to excavate and manipulate to create their nests. These ants are not actually feeding on the wood like termites do; instead, they chew through it to create galleries for nesting. Soft wood, particularly when it has been damaged by moisture or is decaying, provides the ideal conditions for these ants to thrive and establishes a suitable environment for their colonies. This preference for moist wood is why they are often found in wood that is exposed to water damage, such as that from leaky roofs or pipes. High-density hardwood, painted wood, or dry hardwood do not offer the same conducive conditions for nesting that carpenter ants require.