Carpenter ants aren’t exactly picky eaters. They’ll gobble up proteins and sugars, dead and living insects, fruit and meat and pet food. And just like Buddy the Elf, they also enjoy sweet treats like syrup and honey. Contrary to popular belief, they don’t eat wood – they just nest in it. Additionally, food isn’t what attracts carpenter ants to a home. Sure, if they’re in your home and they find something to eat, they’re probably going to grab a morsel or two but that’s not the reason the ants are there – they’re just looking for a place to live!