Spring is the time of year when the trees and flowers are blooming and the world is coming alive again after a long winter. Unfortunately, this is also the time of year when all of the bugs are out to play again. This can be a disaster for pests invading your home.
One question that we get asked often is “what are the differences between flying ants and termites?” At first, these two pests appear to be indistinguishable to the naked eye, but once you know how to tell them apart, they are much easier to spot.
Let’s take a look at some of the differences between termite swarmers and flying ants so you can better spot them in your home.
Termite Swarmers
When you are looking at a termite, you can expect to see an insect that has straight antennae, wings that are all equal in length, and a straight waist. You will notice that they have wider bodies, that are uniform in width from front to back. Their waists do not pinch in like other flying insects. Termite swarmers have wings that are totally clear on the front and the back of their bodies, and all of their wings happen to be the same length.
Flying Ants
Flying ants, on the other hand, have antennae that are bent. Their front and back wings are different lengths, and their torso does not have the same width from front to back. Flying ants can have bodies that are either brown, black or a reddish tint.
Similarities and differences between Termite Swarmers and Flying Ants
Both of these insects live in larger colonies. What’s also interesting about them is that they organize themselves into designated caste systems. However, termites can cause serious damage to houses, with the ability to severely deteriorate structures that are made of wood. Carpenter ants will dwell in wooden structures, but they do not eat wood as termites do.
What to do if you suspect ants or termites
If you suspect you may have a termite infestation, you should contact a local pest control expert immediately. With termites, you may not know if they have already caused severe damage to your home. If you believe you may have a termite infestation, contact our Kansas City Metro, Lawrence, and Topeka pest control experts at Advantage, today.
