Termites are small pests the size of ants which is why they are often mistaken for them. There are different types of termites, and controlling them can be a pain. Looking for solutions to eliminate them is challenging. However, if you know the differences between termites and ants, it is a good starting point. Once you’ve done that the next factor to consider is the termite pest control you will have to undergo.
Termites are secretive in nature. They are challenging to locate, especially if you have poor eyesight. The signs of termites are difficult to spot since they are different termite species, and some are very destructive. Termites’ favorite spots are moist, warm areas.
As with the different pest species, identifying them correctly will lead you to use proper termite control methods. You can also determine the best prevention steps in eliminating the termites. You can also avoid the problems that you can encounter in the future. You can search for termite treatment options with a professional. They use fumigation, chemical barriers, and other useful techniques. It is to keep the destructive termites aways.
What do Termites look like?
Do termites look like cockroaches or ants? If you look closely, termite swarmers are similar to flying ants. Identifying them accurately should be the first goal. Know the differences between the two pests, and you will be able to control them efficiently. It will aid you in applying measures that you can use to eliminate these termites.
To help you become knowledgeable about the differences of termites in appearance, here are their characteristics.
Termite Swarmer and Winged Ant
Pay close attention if the pests have straight waists, if they do, they are termites. If they have pinched waists, it means those are ants. You will also notice that ants antennae are bent, while termites’ are straight. These pests also have differences in the size of their wings. If the length is the same, it is a termite. On the other hand, if it is different, it is an ant.
There is a misconception between ants and flying termites. It is because their mating time also occurs in spring. Remember, if the pests do not shed its wings, it is a flying ant. If you find wings in your yard or ground, be vigilant. It is the termite wings.
Why is Termite Identification Difficult?
Even if you know all the basics about termite, it is still hard to identify the differences between these pests, especially if you are not using special tools like microscopes. Remember that the termite swarmers are only one-fourth inch long.
Identifying it is challenging because it hides on unnoticed properties. The only way you’ll notice them is when you look at the path of destruction they’ve left on your house, room, or office space.
Identifying Termite Species
All kinds of termites can leave destructive damage in your home. Knowing some of the details about termites can help you distinguish them easily. Remember, termites also vary depending on the place you live in.
The location of your home and its structural component can impact the species. Termites love to stay in moist and damp places. If you can avoid these situations, you can reduce the risk of termite infestation.
Below are the common termite species that commonly see in our homes.
- Drywood termites. These termites live in dry and hot areas. They do not need moisture to build their territory and survive.
- Dampwood Termites. These termites are commonly observable in mulch, damp, and rotting wood. They live near the water. The wet wood termites can enter your property through damp soil and woods.
Winged Termites
The primary function of swarmers or winged termites is to reproduce. It’s part of the reproductive class of termites that need to create new colonies. If you notice some fallen wings in your home, it likely means that you are already infested. Remember, it has two wing parts with the same length. Swarming termites target your exterior lighting and window sills. The light is their indicator, and they are attracted to it.
These winged termites will soon be king and queens once they spot a territory. They will build their own colonies. If the time is right, the winged termites will be independent and fly away to their nests. In the air, the female and male termites swarms. Take note, and if they land, they will lose their wings and build their own colony.
Controlling and Preventing Termites After Identification
If you correctly identify the pests, you can quickly generate a plan to terminate them. It is efficient and solves your problems. There are also available termite treatments that can be perfect for eradicating these pests. They call it liquid termiticide treatment. Other methods include baiting and monitoring systems.
Identifying Termites From the Damage They Leave
Identify the termite species, and do not base your judgment solely on visible damages and location. However, there are also extra points to consider to minimize termite problems.
Below are the signs that characterize termite activity.
- Subterranean Termites. These termites enter your home through its sub-structures. Its feeding process causes damages from the ground. If your home has crawl places, it is vulnerable from termite infestation. Try to be observant of your woods and mud tubes. If they have damages, replace it immediately.
- Drywood Termites. These pests enter your home through your roofline. Or they look for the wood that is exposed to moisture to build their colony. Regularly check your attic if there are woods that have damage. Make sure that they do not have small holes. Remember, probing the wood can also expose the galleries.
Experiencing termite infestation is the worst nightmare that can happen in every home. Be vigilant when you have these kinds of problems and pay close attention to your home. If you are in doubt, consult a professional so you can start sleeping better at night.
