What do Termites Look Like?

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Termites are tiny pests that can do thousands of dollars to your house in no time. Keeping these insects away is one of your most important jobs in pest control as a homeowner. One common question people have is, "what do termites look like?" There are many different kinds of termites, but you can probably recognize them with a little work.

Most termites avoid the light, and for this reason, you usually don't see them. The exception is during a swarm when they fly around en masse. If you crack open some termite infested wood, however, you might see a few in their natural habitat.

Subterranean Termites

These termites are small, white or light gray insects. They're often described as "white ants" because of their appearance. They're about the size of a grain of rice. They tiny antennae and six legs. They avoid light. These types of termites build mud tunnels from their homes in the ground to the places where they feed, so you might recognize them from that.

Subterranean termites are what most people think of when they think of termites. These are the termites that attack the foundation of your home and cause massive damage. They're tiny, but they pack a powerful punch.

Drywood Termites

These termites are so named because they prefer to feed on undecayed wood with a low moisture content. They also live in this wood.  These termites are found in coastal areas of the US, mainly along the southeastern coast. Drywood termites are larger than subterranean ones, growing to about a half inch in length. Unlike subterranean termites, drywood termites can often be found in furniture or in the attic of your house.

Swarms

Both types of termites swarm, often after a rain in warmer months. The swarming adults have wings, and may look like winged ants.  Again, swarming drywood termites are larger than their subterranean cousins, about a half inch long. If a swarm happens inside your house, it's hard to miss. You've got a termite problem