Difference between Termites and Carpenter Ants?
Spring is approaching and termites are ready to emerge from their dormancy and Carpenter Ants will be seeking out new areas to nest. Both pests are wood destroying insects, but when you have winged insects swarming in your home, how can you tell the difference between termites and carpenter ants?
Identifying Termites
If you notice small black winged insects (1/4 inch long) swarming in large numbers then you may have a termite issue. Also, be sure to look around your foundation for signs of mud tunnels or damage. Termites attack wood from the inside out so it may take a professional pest control inspector to determine the extent of the infestation. Make sure you schedule a pest inspection at the first sign of trouble by contacting Bain Pest Control Service for your termite prevention options such as a liquid barrier treatment or the Sentricon Always Active Baiting System.
Identifying Carpenter Ants
While termites will eat wood, carpenters ants rely on other sources for food and only use wood to make their nests. Because of this, a carpenter ant infestation can often be given away by the presence of frass (sawdust-like material). If you notice frass in or around your home then that means a nest could be in the area. Carpenter Ants nesting inside your home may be an indication of a moisture issue as well. A professional inspection and treatment may be necessary to find and eliminate these pests before they cause damage to your home.
| Differences Between Termites & Carpenter Ants | ||
|---|---|---|
| Termites | Ants | |
| Body | Three distinct body segments with a pinched waist | Two body segments with broad waist |
| Size | Ants vary in size but can be between 1/2 inch to 1 inch long | Termites are much smarller, about 1/4 inch long |
| Antennae | Elbowed antennae | Straight antennae |
| Wings | Two sets of unequal size wings that remain on their bodies during the swarming cycle | Two sets of equal size wings that fall off at some point in the swarming cylce |