Because most people only think about termites after the damage is done, knowing what they look like ahead of time can save you stress and money. If you’ve ever asked yourself what do termites look like, you’re not alone—it’s one of the most searched questions in pest control.
Termites are often mistaken for ants, flying insects, or even harmless bugs. In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what termites look like, how their appearance changes by type and location, and what signs to look for on wood and around your home.
What Do Termites Look Like?
At first glance, termites are small, soft-bodied insects that usually measure between ⅛ to ½ inch long, depending on the species and caste. Their appearance varies, but they all share a few core traits.
Common Physical Features of Termites
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Pale, white, tan, or light brown bodies
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Straight antennae (not bent like ants)
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Soft, almost translucent bodies
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No narrow “waist” between body segments
Unlike ants, termites often look uniform from head to tail, which is one of the easiest ways to tell them apart.
Different Types of Termites and How They Look
Not all termites look the same. Their appearance depends on their role in the colony.
Worker Termites
Worker termites are the most common but hardest to see.
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Creamy white or light gray
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Small and soft-bodied
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Rarely seen unless wood is broken open
These are the termites actually eating your home.
Soldier Termites
Soldiers are easier to identify.
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Larger heads with strong jaws
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Darker head compared to body
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No wings
They exist solely to protect the colony.
What Do Termites Look Like With Wings?
This is one of the most searched questions—and for good reason.
Winged termites, also called swarmers or alates, appear during mating season.
Key Traits of Winged Termites
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Two pairs of wings the same length
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Wings longer than their body
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Dark brown or black bodies
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Straight antennae
If you see discarded wings near windows or doors, that’s a major red flag. It often means a colony is nearby.
What Do Termites Look Like on Wood?
When termites are on wood, they’re usually not obvious at first.
Signs of Termites on Wood
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Mud tubes along the surface
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Wood that sounds hollow when tapped
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Thin layers of wood peeling away
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Tiny holes or blistered paint
Sometimes, you may see live termites if the wood is damaged or split open.
What Do Termites Look Like in Florida?
Florida is home to several termite species, including subterranean and drywood termites.
Florida Termite Appearance
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Subterranean termites: pale, soft-bodied, often found near soil
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Drywood termites: slightly larger, darker, live inside wood
Because of Florida’s humidity, winged termites are especially common during warm, wet months.
What Do Termites Look Like in Texas?
Texas has one of the highest termite populations in the U.S.
Texas Termite Traits
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Subterranean termites are the most common
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Swarmers often appear in spring
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Colors range from white to dark brown
In Texas, termites are frequently mistaken for flying ants due to seasonal swarms.
Termites vs Ants: How to Tell the Difference
This confusion causes many infestations to go unnoticed.
| Feature | Termites | Ants |
| Antennae | Straight | Bent |
| Waist | Thick | Narrow |
| Wings | Equal length | Unequal |
| Body | Soft | Hard |
If you’re unsure, a close look at the wings and antennae usually clears it up.
Why Identifying Termites Early Matters
Termites don’t just look unpleasant—they cause billions in property damage every year. Early identification helps prevent structural issues and costly repairs.
If you spot anything suspicious, it’s smart to consult a pest control professional quickly.
FAQs
What do termites look like to the naked eye?
They look like small, pale insects, often white or light brown, with straight antennae and soft bodies.
What do termites look like when swarming?
Swarming termites have long, equal-sized wings and darker bodies, often mistaken for flying ants.
Are termites visible during the day?
Most termites avoid light, but winged termites may be seen during daylight when swarming.
What do termites look like inside walls?
They are rarely seen directly, but signs include mud tubes, hollow wood, and bubbling paint.
What do termites look like compared to ants?
Termites have straight antennae, thick waists, and equal-length wings, unlike ants.
Conclusion
Understanding what do termites look like is one of the best ways to protect your home. From winged swarmers to hidden workers inside wood, termites have clear visual signs if you know what to watch for.
If you suspect termite activity, your next step should be learning about treatment options or scheduling a professional inspection. You can also explore related guides on termite prevention and control to stay one step ahead.
