FAQ #813

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How can I tell the difference between flying ants and termites?

Related resource areas: Imported Fire Ants

Although most ants are recognizable, the winged forms of some species of ants and termites are often confused, especially during the termite swarming season. Ants have a thin "waist" (narrow between the thorax and first abdominal segment). The termite's thorax and abdomen are broadly connected. The front pair of wings on ants are larger than the hind pair, while the four wings of termites are approximately the same size and shape. Termite wings have many veins and are milky-colored. Ant wings have few veins and are usually clear. See also FAQ 3411: "How do I determine if those are ants or termites swarming at the foundation of my house, and when should I call an exterminator?" as well as state Extension publications such as Purdue Extension E Series publication E-22 ( "Ants") or Texas Cooperative Extension's "Managing Household Ant Pests" ).

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