How to Spot the Difference Between Ants and Termites
Spring in North Carolina gets many insects moving and making their public appearance again. Two of the most common insects we see in early spring are ants and termites. Both ants and termites often swarm, and can be confused with one another because they look very similar, but there are a few key differences that distinguish them from each other. Read along to find out how you can spot the physical differences between the two.
- Antennae. Ants and termites have very different antennae. Ants have elbowed antennae, and termites have straight antennae.
- Waist. Ants have a defined waist that have a clear pinched waistline, while termites are straight in body.
- Wings. Ants have wings of different sizes from one another, with the front wings being larger than the hind wings. Termites’ wings match and are all the same size.
- Mouthparts. Ants have powerful jaws for biting and chewing, while termites have mouthparts that are adapted for chewing and breaking down wood.
- Diet. Ants are omnivorous and feed on a variety of foods, including other insects, nectar, and honeydew. Termites only feed mainly on wood and other cellulose-based materials.
- Nesting. Ants typically build their nests in soil, while termites build their nests in wood.
If you suspect an ant or termite infestation, give us a call today at 704.850.6091 for an inspection and treatment plan!
