Termite or Ant?

When ant mating flights occur, homeowners often confuse the winged reproductive forms of ants with swarming, winged termites. Here are the most common distinguishing characteristics between ants ands termites:

Both winged forms of ants and termites have two pairs of wings, but ants' front wings are larger and longer than the back wings, while the termites' four wings are all the same length and size.
Ants have narrowed waists and elbowed antennae, while termites have thick waists and short, straight antennae that resemble strings of beads.
Don't be fooled by color or size. Ants can vary in size, and winged termites of various species can be yellowish, reddish, brown or black-like ants.

The Termite Institute is a trademark of BASF. Termite Institute materials and information are not exhaustive, nor should they be relied upon to suggest a course of action for a particular termite problem. These materials should not be used in place of a visit from and recommendation by a licensed pest control professional.

A Termidor® termiticide/insecticide application can only be performed by a licensed pest control professional.

Users must always read and follow label directions.

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