What Are Termites Look Like?
If you’ve heard of termites, you might be wondering what they look like. There are several species of termites, and different types have unique characteristics. So identifying the kind that’s lurking in your home is important. Here are some tips on how to spot a termite.
If you notice peeling paint, mud tubes, or even a hollow-sounding piece of wood, then you may have a termite infestation. You’ll need to call a pest professional to determine the exact type of termite that’s infesting your home. However, it’s not unusual for homeowners to see signs of termites without the help of a professional.
Termites are small insects that feed on cellulose, a substance found in plants. They will also attack cotton clothing, paper products, and other materials. Depending on the species of termite, the infestation can cause serious structural damage to your home.
Unlike ants, termite swarmers are winged. They have two sets of wings, which are the same size, and each wing is a light gray. When swarmers fly away, they usually leave behind some waste material.
Swarmers typically swarm at dusk or at night. They may travel to a new location, and then return to the original colony. They will have shed wings, so if you see this, you’ll know that they’ve entered your home.
They’re also commonly known as flying termites. They’re black, or a light cream to dark brown, and they often have four wings. The wings can be bent or straight.