Flying Ants or Termites?

Every day, we receive concerned calls and emails from homeowners all over Phoenix.

Some are simple questions like this one we received from a worried mom in North Phoenix:

“Yesterday, I came home to find flying bugs in my son’s bedroom near our attic. I’ve been told that it’s practically a given that a homeowner will have termites in Phoenix, and I am worried that the flying bugs I have seen in my home might be termites. What do I do?”

There’s no doubt about it: termites are common in the Phoenix area. When you see any kinds of bugs in your home, you’re can get a little nervous. Thankfully, you can determine what that flying bug is—ant or termite—with a little DIY inspection.

The Differences between Ant and Termite

If you’re able to capture your flying guest without crushing it, take a close look. Ants have three distinct body parts: head, abdomen, and thorax. Termites, on the other hand, only have two body parts: head and body.

They also have different wings. Termites’ wings are the same size and small, whereas ants have two larger sets of different-sized wings. In addition, termites are a bit smaller than ants.

During swarming, both types of insects can be found inside your home and on your property, and they are usually in a bigger group than just two or three. But that doesn’t help you determine if you have a problem, does it?

If You’re Unsure You Have Termites

If you’re thinking, “There’s no way I’m going anywhere near those flying bugs!” that’s okay. You can always call Budget Brothers Termites & Pest Elimination, and we’ll come out and conduct an inspection.

Some things you should be doing—and not doing—before we can get there:

• Make a note of where the insects are coming from and going to. Take pictures or mark the area with tape, so we know to focus our energy there.
• Do not attempt to spray the insects.
• Don’t start tearing apart your home to check for damage. You’ll definitely do more harm than good.
• Vacuum up those critters. Of course, that won’t eliminate the problem, and you’ll probably have to vacuum again, but it will help. This won’t kill the bugs, so discard the vacuum bag or empty your bag-less container after vacuuming.

Don’t Hesitate to Ask

Just as our Phoenix mom reached out to us to ask about what she saw in her home, you can do the same! We welcome your questions at Budget Brothers!

If you have any kinds of insects in your home that you’re not sure about, give us a call.

If you need us to come out, then we can do that too.

Remember, in the case of termites, it’s better to err on the side of caution.

These little guys cost Phoenix homeowners millions of dollars in damage each year, and the key to minimizing your risk is to stay vigilant so you’re ahead of the game.