Termite or Terminator? Ways to Spot Termite Lookalikes

Getting termites in your property can be devastating. But, how can you tell the difference between a real termite and a lookalike? In this article, we explore “” so you are better informed on how to spot these critters and get the best solution.

Main Headline 1: Physical Characteristics

When trying to identify termites in your home, first you need to know their physical characteristics. Termites are brown or black in color, while their lookalikes are reddish-brown. Other physical characteristics to look for are the size of the insects – termites range between 2-3mm, while lookalike insects may range up to five or six millimeters long. Additionally, you may be able to tell the difference between a termite and its lookalike based on the shape of its body. Termites have a straight and slender appearance, while their lookalikes have a curved and stout appearance.

Sub-headline 1.1: Differences in Wings

Perhaps the most telling physical characteristic between the two types of insects is the wings. Termites have two sets of equally sized wings, while lookalikes usually have unequally sized wings. Termites wings also have a short and broad appearance, whereas the wings of its lookalikes are much longer and less broad.

Sub-headline 1.2: Termite-related Droppings

Another physical indicator that can help distinguish between a termite and its lookalikes is their droppings. Termites produce dry, oval-shaped droppings that are scattered in random places, while lookalikes produce larger, round droppings which are deposited in clusters.

Main Headline 2: Behavioral Characteristics

In addition to their physical characteristics, termites also have different behavioral tendencies than their lookalikes. Termites are known for their quick and active habits, while their lookalikes have much slower and passive behaviors. Moreover, termites group in large numbers and tend to be most active during the day, whereas the lookalikes prefer to stay in small groups and are mostly active after dark.

Sub-headline 2.1: Eating Habits

Another key difference in the behavior of termites and its lookalikes is their eating habits. Termites are known to feed on cellulose materials, while lookalikes tend to feed on wooden debris and other organic debris. Additionally, termites have an affinity for damp surfaces, whereas the lookalikes have an affinity for moist surfaces.

Sub-headline 2.2: Mating Habits

In terms of their mating habits, termites tend to mate in the springtime and can remain flying for several days, whereas lookalikes usually mate in the summer season and their time spent in the air is usually limited to one day.

Main Headline 3: Expert Help

Despite being able to spot the differences between a termite and its lookalikes through physical characteristics and behavior, it is always best to reach out to an expert in order to confirm and get the right treatment. A pest management professional can help determine if the insects infesting your property are actually termites or just lookalikes.

Sub-headline 3.1: Dedication

To diagnose the presence of termites, the pest management professionals will conduct an extensive in-depth inspection. Depending on the situation, they may also use specialized equipment such as moisture meters, infrared cameras, and thermal imaging devices to detect the presence of termites.

Sub-headline 3.2: Thorough Treatment

Once the termites have been identified, the pest management professionals will put together a thorough and effective treatment plan. This plan will help eliminate the existing infestation and protect against future infestations.

People Also Ask Questions

Question 1: How do you tell the difference between a termite and a lookalike?

Termites are typically brown or black in color, while their lookalikes vary in color but tend to be reddish-brown. Other physical differences include: size (2-3mm for termites, up to 5-6mm for lookalikes), body shape (straight and slender for termites, curved and stout or lookalikes) and wings (termites have two sets of equal sized wings, while lookalikes often have unequally sized wings).

Question 2: What do termite droppings look like?

Termites produce dry, oval-shaped droppings that are scattered in random places. In comparison, lookalikes produce larger, round droppings which are deposited in clusters.

Question 3: What kind of food do termites eat?

Termites are known to feed on cellulose materials, such as wood and other debris from vegetation.

Question 4: How do I get rid of a termite infestation?

The most effective way to get rid of a termite infestation is to contact a pest management professional who can conduct an in-depth inspection and come up with a comprehensive treatment plan.

Question 5: Are termites active during the night?

Termites are most active during the day, while their lookalikes are typically most active after dark.

Final Words

Understanding the differences between termites and their lookalikes is critical when it comes to preventing an infestation. By familiarizing yourself with the different physical characteristics and behavior patterns of termites and their lookalikes, you can make a more informed decision to help protect your property from a termite infestation.

Meta description: Getting termites in your home can be devastating. Learn about the differences between termites and lookalikes and how you can spot termites with this informative article.