Spring is quickly approaching in the Albany NY area. Common spring pests include ants and termites. One of the most common questions is, "What is the difference between an ant and termite?" Ants are small with six legs, a head, a thorax, and an abdomen. Both, ants and termites have queens who lay eggs and kings who fertilize the eggs.

Difference between an Ant and Termite: Antennae

What is the difference between an ant and termite

Ant antennae are two “wires” that come out the head have elbows. In the termite, these antennae are straight.

Difference between an Ant and Termite: Wings

If you find ants or termites with wings, look at those wings. All four of the wings of a termite are about the same length. The two rear wings of a flying ant are shorter than the front wings.

Ants vs Termites: Behavioral Differences

Ants are almost always easier to find, as they do not hide nearly as much as termites. Most ants live in visible holes or nests, or they issue from cracks in the concrete. Ant nests are often formed by removing earth from the holes they dig in the ground. They have darker, more hardened skins. Due to the fact that they have eyes, they have great perception of the world around them.

Termites are usually hidden. Because of this they have soft bodies of pale colors. They often enter a wooden home and seal the entrance. Or, they will live in the soil and form tunnels to get to and from the wood which is their feeding ground. Worker termites are blind (they have no eyes) and find their way by following the passage ways, by following pheromone trails, or with their antennae.

Termites vs Ants: Food Choices

Ants feed on almost anything. Ants like all kinds of sweet stuff, while some ants eat leaves, vegetables and bugs. What do the termites eat? Just wood.

As a Ballston Spa homeowner, you should know the difference between an ant and termite and the signs of ants and signs of termites. If you observe winged insects or suspect termites may be present inside or around your home, contact your Clifton Park NY exterminator immediately for a thorough inspection. Thomas Pest Services is trained in wood destroy insect control such as getting rid of carpenters ant and getting rid of termites. As a homeowner, it is recommended to have an annual termite inspection of your property. Call today to schedule a no charge home evolution including an ant inspection and/or termite inspection!

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