Termites can be a homeowner's worst nightmare, as they can pose a serious risk to the structure of a home. If left unchecked, termite colonies can increase their numbers within the walls of your home, feasting on the cellulose found in wood. Thousands of termites in a mature colony over the course of several years can cause such significant structural damage that may require repair.

What is a Termite?
Termites are widely regarded as one of the most destructive pests on the planet. Termites are insects that feed primarily on dead plant matter such as woodchips, decayed wood like logs, leaf litter, and soil.

Although they are sometimes referred to as ‘white ants,’ they are only distantly related to ants.

What’s the Difference Between Termites and Ants
If you’re unsure whether you’re dealing with termites or ants, here are a few pointers that can help you differentiate between the two:

Termites have relatively straight antennae.
Ants have elbowed antennae.
The termite abdomen is broadly joined to the thorax — no waist.
Ants have a narrow waist and appear segmented.
Termites have two pairs of wings (front and back) that are almost equal in length.
Ants have two pairs of wings — the front wings are much larger than the back wings.