ant or termite?
Do I have termites? or Do I have ants?
We get questions like this all the time. The first step is a thorough professional inspection. We have a unique set of knowledge combining home construction, wood destroying insect biology and years of experience.
Here is how you get started. Identification is the key. Listed below are easy to spot differences between the winged reproductives of termites and carpenter ants.
Termite Reproductive
Body Shape: No distinct segments; cigar-shaped
Antenna: Straight
Wings: 2 pair – same size; twice as long as body
Signs of Infestation:
Mud or dirt tunnels on the interior or exterior walls of the foundation.
Unexplained damage to wood
Live swarmers or loose termite wings appearing in the house, usually near light sources in the spring
Carpenter Ant Reproductive
Body Shape: 3 distinct segments; hourglass shaped
Antenna: Elbowed
Wings: 2 pair – front wings longer than rear
Signs of Infestation:
Worker ants visible in or on house
Sawdust with insect parts visible
Unexplained damage to wood
Winged reproductives visible
