What unique behavior do carpenter ants exhibit regarding wood?

Carpenter ants are known for their behavior of excavating wood not for nutritional purposes, but specifically to create nesting sites. They do not consume the wood like termites do; instead, they chew through wood to carve out galleries for their nests. This behavior allows them to establish colonies within wooden structures, which can often lead to structural damage. Carpenter ants are more likely to infest soft or damp wood, making it crucial for pest control professionals to identify signs of their activity in order to mitigate potential damage. Their role is significant as they help in the decomposition process of dead trees in natural environments, yet when they invade homes or buildings, understanding their nesting behavior is essential for effective control and management strategies.