Difference Between Termites and Ants

Search for a local business

Termites are one of the most destructive pests in the world and ants can cause their own share of trouble.

If you notice some unusual damage around the home to wood structures, floorboards, or even mud nests, it's a clear indication of a termite or ant infestation in your home. It's very important to distinguish which type of pest is present.

Habitat and traits of termites and ants

Carpenter ants and termites are very similar in physical appearance and it can be difficult to identify one from the other.

Carpenter ants feed on food item which is both waste or fresh and live in mud tubes underground or in hidden places. Termites eat wood and make it into hollow structures.

Only a professional pest control operator can help you find new colonies and eliminate insects or termites.

Physical differences between termites and ants

It's really a challenging task to distinguish between carpenter ants and termites. These tiny creatures have minor differences in their bodies. A termite body consists of a head and thorax while an ant body has an additional part - an abdomen. A termite has long wings, usually 2-3 times bigger than the body, while an ant has wings just a little bigger than their structure.

Winged termites have straight antennae, carpenter ant antennae are elbowed.
Termites are mostly light-coloured, white or a creamy colour and transparent.
A termite's waist is thick compared to carpenter ants.

How can you find termites?

Look out for the following signs of a termite infestation.

Mud tubes

Most species of termite require shelter for their protection. They eat wood hide in these tube-like nest made from their droppings and dirt.

Damage to ceiling and floor

If you see cracks in the ceiling or in a laminated floor there may be signs of termites. You can also check by knocking on the suspected area and listening out for a hollow sound.

Repeated electrical short circuits

If you are suffering from repeated short circuits, check your electric fitting. If you find dust or soil heaps it could be a sign of termites.

Swarm of flying insects

If you find a winged pest swarm around your house it could be flying termites.

Can termites be mistaken for carpenter ants?

Carpenter ants and termites are much similar in shape, colour and size. Their reproductive system and biology is also quite similar. In both pests, eggs are laid by the queen and workers do most of the work in the colony. Worker pests do their job and soldiers maintain defence with equal responsibility. Some ants are flying ants with wings, some feed on wood and live in a nest - exactly the same as termites.