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Identifying Termites and Flying Ants

Identifying Termites and Flying Ants

Nobody likes insects, but add wings to the mix and you have a homeowner’s worst nightmare. There are plenty of creepy crawlers with the ability to fly, but none that can cause as much damage as termites. If you see a little termite-looking guy roaming around your home, don’t freak out – it might be a flying ant! Termites and flying ants look a lot alike, so knowing the difference between the two could save your home…and your sanity.

The difference between termites and flying ants:

Flying Ant

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Flying Ants can be a bit intimidating, especially if you’re not prepared for that little ant on the ground to take flight. These winged creatures are often mistaken for termites, and while they won’t eat through your home, you definitely don’t want a swarm of these guys flying through your living room.

Characteristics:

  • Bent antennae
  • Pinched waist
  • Two sets of wings; top set larger than the lower set

Behaviors:

  • Live in large colonies
  • Focused on mating
  • Males die after mating

Diet:

  • Nectar
  • Seeds
  • Other insects
  • Food debris

Fun Fact:

Male flying ants exist solely for the purpose of mating. After the mating process is done, the male flying ant will die. Once the female flying ant has mated, she will tear off her wings so she’ll never fly again.

Termite

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The little critters have developed quite the reputation. Every year, termites leave behind millions of dollars in damages. It’s important to stay on the lookout for these guys. They’ve got quite the appetite and can eat through your home.

Characteristics:

  • Straight antennae
  • Straight waist
  • Wings equal in size

Behaviors:

  • Live in large colonies
  • Communicate through vibrations
  • Like to stay hidden
  • Won’t physically harm humans

Diet:

  • Cellulose-based products
  • Wood
  • Paper

Fun Fact:

Termites are rich in iron, calcium, fatty and amino acids, and protein. That means they’d make the perfect mid-day snack!

No matter what type of swarmer you see buzzing around your home, Bug House can tackle the problem. Flying ant and termite treatments are very different, so it’s best to let the professionals make the final identification call, but we’ll give you bonus points for being right! Reach out to us here, or give us a call for the pest free home you deserve. 706-309-0881