One of the most destructive things for your home is insect infestation. Most of us immediately think of termites but carpenter ants can be a real aggravation.

Carpenter ants differ from termites in several ways. They are larger in size and have a different shape with a smaller waist. They usually swarm in the spring and if you see them around, there is probably a nest nearby. They don't do the kind of damage a termite does but most people don't want to put out a Welcome mat for the critters.

If your home is being invaded, do a little investigation before you call the exterminator. If you can find their nest, you've gone a long way in eliminating the problem. Check for leaky gutters and areas that trap moisture. If the flashing on the chimney is loose, water will seep through and under the shingles. The areas around bathtubs, showers, and other water pipes have the potential for leaking, so inspect these regularly. Carpenter ants love to nest in moist areas. Good maintenance is the first step to prevention.

Carpenter ants are fond of sweet and greasy foods as well as moist areas, so naturally, the kitchen is their first choice for a meal. It's better to find their source, rather than simply spray them. Look around windows and doors for trails. If you think you've found where they are coming in, make a bait with something sweet, such as jam or honey and peanut butter - or jam and dog food. Make sure Fido isn't partaking.

Once you're sure of their comings and goings, you're ready to attack. Make up a new batch of bait using a teaspoon of boric acid to a cup of the sweet mixture. They won't know the difference and will carry this back to the nest. The boric acid acts as a poison and should destroy the entire colony. After a few days of this treatment, you can add boric acid around any space where they have been entering your home. There are poisons you can purchase for applying indoors or around foundations. Caution! If you have small children or pets, be VERY CAREFUL with any insecticide. If in doubt, call in the professionals.

Once you've gotten rid of the carpenter ants, take care to waterproof and seal your home to prevent their re-entry. They are more of a nuisance than anything else.

Looking for an easy, inexpensive hobby? One that will provide you hours of entertainment without ever leaving home?

Add a bird feeder to your back yard or patio. Then, pull up a chair and enjoy the scenery. Millions of people take great pleasure in watching the comings and goings of our fine feathered friends. You can attract a variety of birds by using different kinds of seeds and feeders. Build one of your own or buy one already made.

Just like people, birds have preferences in housing and in food. Finches are partial to the plastic tub feeders. They can hang from a tree branch or from a hook on the porch. Their size and the shape of the feeding port will help to discourage squirrels and larger birds.

Suet gives birds the extra energy they need, especially in winter. And a suet feeder does double duty. Insect loving birds also like the taste of suet and by attracting them, you'll help control the insect population. Hopper feeders are great for us lazy folks. They self-replenish and attract a large variety of birds, including finches and chickadees. Unfortunately, squirrels are fond of these, also.

Hummingbirds are fascinating, but they are also territorial. If you want to try to attract Hummingbirds, place several nectar containers around the yard or garden area. You can make your own nectar by boiling one part sugar with three parts water. Place the cooled mixture in bright red containers.

If you buy large quantities of bird seed, be sure to store in a dry, covered container. Otherwise, you may get some unwanted guests. Don't forget to clean the feeder occasionally. If your feeder is made of plastic, ceramic or glass, it will be easy. Just use hot, soapy water with a capful or two of chlorine bleach. Rinse thoroughly and allow to dry.