Ants with Wings vs. Termites: How to Tell the Difference

If you’ve spotted flying insects in your home, you might be wondering: Are these ants with wings or termites? While they may look similar at first glance, knowing the difference is crucial, especially when it comes to termite control. Termites can cause significant damage to your home, while flying ants are usually more of a nuisance than a structural threat.

IF YOU ARE UNCERTIAN IF YOU HAVE AN ANT OR TERMITE ACTIVITY PLEASE TEXT A PICTURE OF THE SPECIMEN IN QUESTION TO 812-604-7206 AND WE CAN HELP YOU IDENTIFY WHAT YOU ARE SEEING.

At Yikes Pest, we specialize in pest control in Evansville and can help you determine whether you have a termite problem or just a swarm of flying ants. Here’s how to tell them apart and what to do if you have an infestation.

Call or Text Yikes Pest Control 812-604-7206

Key Differences Between Ants with Wings and Termites

1. Body Shape

   • Ants with Wings: Have a defined waist, making them look segmented. Their bodies resemble traditional ants but with wings.

   • Termites: Have a straight, uniform body with no noticeable waist. They appear more cylindrical.

2. Antennae

   • Ants: Have bent or elbowed antennae.

   • Termites: Have straight, bead-like antennae.

3. Wings

   • Ants: Have two sets of wings, with the front pair being noticeably longer than the back pair.

   • Termites: Have two sets of wings that are the same length and extend past their bodies.

4. Behavior

   • Flying Ants: Are often seen near windows, doors, or light sources and are usually a sign of an ant colony nearby.

   • Termites: Swarm in large numbers when mating and often indicate an active infestation within your home’s structure.

     
     

Why Termites Are a Serious Problem

Termites are one of the most destructive pests, causing billions of dollars in damage to homes across the U.S. each year. Unlike ants, termites feed on wood and can weaken your home’s foundation over time.

If you see signs of termite activity, such as mud tubes, hollowed-out wood, or discarded wings, you should seek professional termite control immediately.

What to Do If You Spot Flying Ants or Termites

• If you see flying ants: While they can be annoying, they don’t pose a major risk to your home. However, if they become a problem, contact a pest control Evansville expert to treat the infestation.

• If you see termites: Act quickly! Termites can silently destroy your home, so scheduling a termite inspection with a professional is crucial.

  
  

Get Expert Pest Control in Evansville

If you’re unsure whether you have flying ants or termites, don’t wait until it’s too late. At Yikes Pest, we offer comprehensive termite control and pest control services in Evansville to protect your home. Contact us today for an inspection and keep your property pest-free!