IPMA | Indiana Pest Management Association, Inc. | Pest Control | ants | cockroaches | termites | spiders | stinging | biting

Distinguishing Termites From Ants

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There are a few ways to distinguish a termite from an ant. Below are some clear ways to tell them apart:

Examine the insects' wings, waist and antenna.

Termites' wings are typically equal in size; ants tend to have wings that are longer in front and shorter in back.
Termites' waists are thicker and less distinct; ants have narrow, pinched waists.
Ants' antennae are elbowed; termites antennae are straight.

Termites leave evidence of their intrusion but sometimes not before it's too late. Here are a few things to look for when inspecting your home:

Mud tubes located on walls outside or inside the structure
Hollow sounding wood.
Dead termites around windows, doors, heating vents or in bathtubs and sinks.

Termites

Live Termites
Worker termites are small, whitish insects that will quickly move away when exposed to light. Swarming termites are also an indication. They can swarm at various times each year according to geographic regions and weather conditions.

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