How to Tell the Difference Between Carpenter Ants and Termites
Calling all New Yorkers! Spring is here, which means it’s time to defend your home against wood-destroying pests. In this week’s blog post, we’re breaking down how to tell the difference between carpenter ants and termites, two common seasonal culprits that can cause serious damage to your home. Let’s swarm in.
Appearance
What Do Carpenter Ants Look Like?
Carpenter ants vary in size, with workers typically measuring between 1/4 to 1/2 inch in length. They have a segmented body with six legs and can be black, red, or a combination of both colors. One distinguishing feature of carpenter ants is their elbowed antennae and narrow waists.
What Do Termites Look Like?
Subterranean termites are the predominant termite species found in New York, and they differ significantly in appearance from carpenter ants. These pests have a soft, creamy white body with straight antennae and a broad waist. They are generally smaller than carpenter ants, ranging from 1/4 to 1/2 inch in length. Unlike carpenter ants, termites do not have a distinct segmentation in their bodies.
Behavior
Carpenter Ant Behavior
Carpenter ants are skilled woodworkers, capable of tunneling through both damp and dry wood to establish their nests. While they do not eat wood like termites, carpenter ants excavate galleries within wooden structures to create nesting sites. They are often attracted to areas with high moisture levels, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements, where they can cause significant structural damage if left unchecked.
Termite Behavior
Termites, on the other hand, feed on the cellulose in wood as their primary food source, making them especially destructive to wooden structures. Subterranean termites build their colonies underground and construct mud tubes to access above-ground sources of wood. These pests are relentless in their pursuit of cellulose-rich materials and can quickly compromise the integrity of your home if not addressed promptly.
Treatment
Carpenter Ant Treatment
Effective treatment for carpenter ant infestations typically involves locating and eliminating the nest. This may require thorough inspections of your property, focusing on areas where moisture is present or wood damage is evident. A licensed pest control company like Knockout Pest Control can also apply residual insecticides or bait treatments to targeted areas to control carpenter ant populations and prevent future infestations.
Termite Treatment
At Knockout Pest Control, we know firsthand the havoc termites can wreak on your home. That’s why our dedicated team is committed to delivering top-tier, eco-friendly termite control solutions tailored to your needs. When it comes to combating these relentless pests, we offer two standout treatments: Sentricon and Trelona. These highly effective options are designed to eliminate termites and prevent future infestations.
Knock Out Wood Destroying Pests This Spring
When it comes to protecting your home from wood-destroying pests like carpenter ants and termites, proactive measures are essential. Regular inspections, proper maintenance, and prompt treatment of infestations are key to preventing costly damage and preserving the integrity of your property.
At Knockout Pest Control, our comprehensive approach extends beyond termites to include carpenter ants, ensuring your home remains pest-free all year round. With each member of our team receiving over 100 hours of rigorous classroom instruction and in-the-field training, you can trust that you’re getting the most skilled professionals in the business. If you suspect you have a wood-destroying pest problem, contact our team today to schedule an inspection.
