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The Difference Between Termites and Flying Ants

According to the University of Georgia Entomology Dept., subterranean termites can be found in nearly every yard in the Southeastern U.S. feeding on tree stumps, firewood, etc.  Termites also cause major structural damage to homes and business with their constant consumption of wood.   With the spring season upon us here in Atlanta, the weather is warming up and pests our coming out of the woodwork.  In some cases literally.  This can be a confusing time for property owners. It’s not always easy to determine what pests are invading. Two common spring pests that get mixed up are winged termites and flying ants. Termite colonies have swarmer termites that leave the colony in the spring and start their own colony. These termites can easily be confused with flying ants due to their many similarities. If you are brave enough to get a closer look at these pests here is how you can tell the difference between termites and flying ants:

Termites have straight antenna on the front of their head. Their waist is broad and oval with a brownish red color. Their wings are even in length.

Flying ants have bent antenna on the front of their head. Their waist is a narrow oval shape and black in color. Their front wings are longer then the hind wings.

For more information on looking at the differences between termites and flying ants check out http://www.pestworld.org/multimedia-center/pest-tv/ask-the-pest-pro/ask-the-pest-professor-termites-vs-ants/.

If you are not interested in getting that close to these pests, take a look around you. If you see discarded wings, you’re likely dealing with termites. Swarmers shed their wings after mating.

If you think that there is any chance you might have either of these pests in your home it is best to call a pest control company (one that specializes in termite control) as soon as possible. Termites are highly destructive pests that will eat away at your home or structure, causing massive damage before you realize it.

The Difference Between Termites and Flying Ants in Georgia

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