What do termites look like?
Quick Answer
Termites are small, pale insects with soft bodies; workers are creamy white while swarmers have dark bodies and wings. Most termites measure 3-8mm long and have straight antennae, thick waists, and soft, translucent bodies.
Key Takeaways
- Worker termites are pale, creamy white with soft bodies
- Swarmer termites are darker with four equal-length wings
- Size ranges from 3-8mm depending on caste and species
- Have straight, beaded antennae unlike ants' bent antennae
- Soft, translucent bodies easily damaged when exposed
- Different castes have distinctly different appearances
Termite Castes and Appearance
Termites live in colonies with different castes, each having distinct physical characteristics:
Worker Termites (Most Common)
The termites most likely to be seen during an infestation:
- Color: Creamy white to pale yellow
- Size: 3-6mm long
- Body: Soft, translucent, and segmented
- Head: Rounded with small eyes or no eyes
- Wings: None
Soldier Termites
Defenders of the colony with distinctive features:
- Head: Large, elongated, often orange or brown
- Mandibles: Prominent jaws for defense
- Body: Similar to workers but with larger heads
- Size: 4-8mm long
- Wings: None
Swarmer Termites (Reproductives)
Winged termites that start new colonies:
- Color: Dark brown to black
- Wings: Four equal-length wings
- Size: 6-10mm including wings
- Body: More robust than workers
- Eyes: Well-developed compound eyes
Physical Characteristics
Key features that help identify termites:
Antennae
- Shape: Straight and beaded (not elbowed)
- Segments: Multiple small segments
- Length: Relatively short compared to body
- Movement: Constantly moving to sense environment
Body Structure
- Waist: Thick, broad waist (not constricted like ants)
- Segments: Clear head, thorax, and abdomen divisions
- Texture: Soft-bodied and easily damaged
- Legs: Six short legs
Different Termite Species
Common North American termite species have slight variations:
Subterranean Termites
- Workers: 3-4mm, very pale cream color
- Swarmers: Dark brown to black, 6-8mm
- Most common type found in homes
- Live underground and build mud tubes
Drywood Termites
- Workers: 4-6mm, cream to light brown
- Swarmers: Reddish-brown, larger heads
- Live directly in wood without soil contact
- Leave distinctive frass (sawdust-like droppings)
Dampwood Termites
- Largest termites - up to 20mm for swarmers
- Workers: Cream colored, larger than other species
- Require high moisture content in wood
- Less common in structures
Termites vs. Ants
Key differences to distinguish termites from flying ants:
Antennae
- Termites: Straight, beaded antennae
- Ants: Bent, elbowed antennae
Waist
- Termites: Thick, broad waist
- Ants: Pinched, narrow waist
Wings (Swarmers Only)
- Termites: Four wings of equal length
- Ants: Front wings longer than rear wings
Signs of Termite Presence
Visual indicators beyond seeing the insects themselves:
Mud Tubes
- Brown, pencil-thick tubes on walls or foundations
- Connect soil to wood structures
- Protect termites from light and air
Frass (Termite Droppings)
- Small, pellet-like droppings
- Often found in small piles
- Color varies from light to dark brown
Wing Piles
- Discarded wings near windows or doors
- Indicate recent swarming activity
- Wings are uniform in size and shape
When and Where to Look
Best times and locations to spot termites:
Seasonal Activity
- Spring: Peak swarming season
- Warm weather: Increased activity
- After rain: Higher moisture encourages emergence
Common Locations
- Foundation walls and basement areas
- Around windows and door frames
- Near water sources and leaky pipes
- Wooden structures in contact with soil
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell if I'm seeing termites or ants?
Look at the antennae (termites have straight, beaded ones), waist (termites have thick waists), and wings if present (termite wings are equal length). Termites also have softer, paler bodies than most ants.
Are termites visible to the naked eye?
Yes, termites are clearly visible ranging from 3-10mm in length. However, they avoid light and are often hidden within wood or underground, making them less commonly seen than other insects.
What should I do if I see flying termites?
Flying termites (swarmers) indicate an active colony nearby. Contact a professional pest inspector immediately, as this suggests a mature infestation that could be causing structural damage.
Do all termites look the same?
No, different castes within the same colony look very different. Workers are pale and wingless, soldiers have large heads and mandibles, and swarmers are dark with wings.
Can I see termite damage without seeing the termites?
Yes, termites can cause extensive damage while remaining hidden. Look for mud tubes, wood that sounds hollow when tapped, sagging floors, or small piles of sawdust-like frass.
Why don't I see termites during the day?
Termites are photophobic (avoid light) and have soft bodies that dry out quickly. They typically remain hidden in wood, underground, or in mud tubes during daylight hours.
Termite Detection Tools
Tools for identifying and monitoring termites:
