What unique feature do Carpenter Ants' galleries have compared to termite galleries?

Carpenter Ant galleries are characterized by their cleanliness compared to termite galleries. When Carpenter Ants excavate wood, they create smooth tunnels that are relatively free from debris. This is in contrast to termite galleries, which often contain a mixture of wood particles, fecal matter, and soil due to their feeding habits and nest construction. The absence of debris in Carpenter Ant galleries is significant because it indicates that the ants are not consuming the wood for sustenance; instead, they are merely hollowing it out for nesting purposes. This cleanliness helps in identifying the damage caused specifically by Carpenter Ants when conducting inspections.