Where is the primary nest of carpenter ants most likely to be located?

The primary nest of carpenter ants is most commonly found in moist wood. Carpenter ants prefer to establish their colonies in areas where the wood is already softened by moisture, often resulting from either water damage or decay. This moist environment allows the ants to easily excavate and create their nests.

While dry wood can sometimes be used for nesting, it is not ideal for carpenter ants, as they cannot effectively tunnel and expand their nests in such conditions. Similarly, nesting underground is more common for other types of ants, and while some carpenter species may dig into the ground, their primary nests are typically within the wood itself. Stone structures are not a natural habitat for carpenter ants, as they rely on the softer, decaying wood for nesting. Thus, moist wood is the most suitable choice for the primary location of a carpenter ant colony.