What Does a Termite Look Like?

Termites are tiny, but they can cause big problems. So how do you recognize a termite when you come across one? Here’s what you should know about what a termite looks like.

Color and Shape

Termites are typically about ⅛-¼ inch long, although some species can be as long as ½ inch. Most species of termites are light to medium brown in color, but some may be reddish or whitish.

Often, you won’t actually see a termite. Instead, you’ll see one of its many castes, which refer to the different types of worker termites that serve a specific function within the termite colony.

The most common type of worker termite caste is the soldier caste. This caste is usually a little bigger and darker than the other termites. Soldiers have large mandibles (or jaws), which they use to defend the colony against predators and to gather food. Other castes include the worker termite and the reproductives.

Antennae and Wings

All termite species have two segmented antennae, which are typically the same length as their body. In addition, most termite species have two pairs of wings of equal length that are slightly longer than their body. When only their wings are visible, termites may look like flying ants, which can mislead people into thinking that they are dealing with an ant infestation.

In some species, such as the drywood termite, the reproductives have wings that are longer than their body, while the workers and soldiers do not have wings (or they have shorter wings). Winged termites, or swarmers, are typically only seen as part of the reproductives’ mating ritual.

External Features

The most noticeable external features of a termite are its antennae and wings. In addition, you may notice that termites have three distinct body segments. The head contains compound eyes and the antennae, which help the termite sense its environment. The second segment contains the thorax, which is connected to six legs, and the third segment is the abdomen. Depending on the species, the abdomen may be hardened, allowing the termite to break through wood and other materials in its search for food sources.

Conclusion

So, what does a termite look like? Termites are small, light to medium brown in color, and have two antennae, two pairs of wings, three body segments and six legs. In certain species, the reproductives may have wings that are longer than their body, while other castes may have no wings at all. In the end, if you come across any type of termite and you’re not sure what to do, contact your local pest control company right away.