News & Information

Ants or Termites?

April 7, 2009

Chances are you've seen ants in your lifetime and they may have been in your home. Maybe you've even seen winged ants in your home. But how can you be sure they're not termites?

Both termites and ants spread their species by sending out winged, reproductive colony members called swarmers. Termite swarmers are usually seen in the spring and are commonly found after a rainy day. While winged ants and winged termites can look similar, they do have a few distinguishing charactistics.

One distinguishing characteristic between ants and termites is their body parts. Ants have three distinct body sections: the head, thorax, and abdomen. While all insects share this attribute, the thorax of the termite swarmer is not distinguished. Therefore, it appears that termite swarmers have a head and long body.

Winged ants and winged termites also have different antennae. All ant species' antennae are segmented, or appear jointed. These segments are often important in the identification process. Termite swarmers have straight antennae that are beaded.

Another distinguishing characteristic between termite swarmers and ant swarmers is their wings. Both insects have two pairs of wings but the ant swarmer's wing pairs are of unequal length. When gently spread apart, the rear wings of the ant swarmer are shorter than the front wings.

If you've noticed either of these insects inside your home and are unsure of what to do next, give us a call. We will come out for a free, no-obligation inspection.