How To Tell The Difference Between Ants And Termites

Ant vs. Termite Anatomy

Ant vs. Termite Anatomy

How To Tell The Difference Between Ants And Termites

Out of all of the insects in the world, two of the hardest ones to tell apart from one another are ants and termites.Both of these insects appear during the springtime and summertime, mostly to mate and reproduce.

However, if you ever come across both of them, it’s important to know which is which.

Characteristics of Ants

Ants possess the following characteristics:

  • They have waists that are constricted and narrow in nature
  • They have antennae that appear to be bent
  • They possess three very distinct bodily segments
  • They are darker in color and do not avoid light

Characteristics of Termites

Termites possess the following characteristics:

  • Rather than having an actual waist, their bodies are more rectangular in nature
  • They have antennae that are more straight and furry, also known as “bearded”
  • They are a more transparent color (light, creamy, etc.)
  • They avoid light unless a situation arises, such as a disturbance of their nest

One major way in which it may be next to impossible to tell termites and ants apart is the fact that during their respective reproductive stages, both insects are winged. In addition, there is also the fact that both insects swarm in their winged forms at the same time of the year and in similar weather conditions. However, there are some subtle ways that you can tell the winged versions of the insects apart from one another.

Characteristics of Winged Ants

  • Their wings extend only to slightly past the end of their bodies
  • Their wings tend to take on a slight angle, causing them to point away at the bottom

Characteristics of Winged Termites

  • Their wings are long and narrow in shape, extending beyond their abdomens by approximately one entire body length or more
  • Their wings point away in a straight line

Regardless of whether they are winged or not, ants and termites can cause numerous issues that will require them to be taken care of as soon as possible. Here are some useful ways to achieve this so that the troublesome insects won’t be able to bother you anymore.

For both insects: if you find that the problem may be too much for you to handle on your own, your best bet would be to contact an exterminator. These individuals possess the proper tools to be able to efficiently eliminate the insects.

How to Get Rid of Ants

  • One of the most common ways to rid your home of ants is to invest in ant traps, which can be purchased at your local supermarket.
  • Use bug spray on the ants to immediately kill them. Be sure to use bug spray that works specifically for ants.
  • Use a vacuum to suck the ants up into it, then empty the vacuum bag.
  • Keep all areas of your home as clean as possible.
  • Seal up any cracks that you may find, especially in windows and doors, as these are the perfect passageways for ants.

How to Get Rid of Termites

  • Contact an exterminator to deal with these insects, since they will have the proper tools, chemicals, and training to deal with a potential infestation.
  • The most common fact about termites is that they enjoy feasting on wood. Therefore, keep any firewood you may have stored away from your home.
  • If there are any dead trees and/or stumps close to your home, have them removed as soon as possible.
  • Make sure that any and all structural wood on your home is situated approximately six inches above ground level. This will ensure that termites will not be able to get to it.
  • Seal any and all cracks that you may come across.
  • Schedule an annual inspection of your home to ensure that you do not have any termites infesting it.

Non Toxic Spray

Non-Toxic Spray

This non-toxic spray kills larvae, eggs, and adult insects by breaking down their exoskeleton. It is safe to spray around the home and works only on the insects. Feel good about spraying indoors around pets, plants and children.
All Natural Non Toxic Insect Killer Spray by Killer Green

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