Is that an Ant or a Termite?

During this time of year, many insects, including ants and termites, search for new places to establish colonies. When conditions are right—warmer temperatures, brighter sunlight, and light winds—winged insects leave their original nests. This mass flight is known as swarming, and the winged insects are called swarmers or alates.  Although dramatic, swarming itself is short-lived and usually lasts only a day.

Before reacting, it’s important to identify what you’re seeing.

• Why identification matters
  • Ants are typically a nuisance and rarely cause structural damage.
  • Termites, however, can cause serious and costly damage to a home.
  • Knowing the difference helps determine whether simple control or professional help is needed.
• Differences between ants and termites
  • Body shape
    • Ants have a narrow, pinched “waist.”
    • Termites have a thicker, more uniform midsection.
  • Wings
    • Ants have two pairs of wings that are different sizes.
    • Termite wings are equal in size and much longer than their bodies.
  • Antennae
    • Ant antennae are bent or elbowed.
    • Termite antennae are straight and bead-like.
• Where they come from
  • Ants usually nest in soil, near foundations, sidewalks, or plants that attract honeydew-producing insects.
  • Subterranean termites live underground and build tunnels to reach wood.
  • Drywood termites live inside walls, beams, or furniture.
  • Signs of termites include:
    • Discarded wings
    • Wood blisters
    • Small piles of sawdust-like droppings on floors or windowsills
• What to do
  • If you’re confident they are ants:
    • Seal cracks and entry points
    • Remove food sources
    • Use bait if needed
  • If termites are suspected:
    • Contact a professional
    • DIY treatments are usually ineffective and may miss hidden damage
• Managing a swarm indoors
  • Concentrate insects by leaving one light on and turning others off
  • Block exit holes temporarily with tape
  • Vacuum insects using a hose attachment

If there’s any doubt, collect a few insects in a container and show them to a professional for proper identification.