Continuing from Monday…
New Jersey pest control experts say that many NJ residents often confuse some types of ant invasions with subterranean termites. To the untrained eye, it can be difficult to distinguish the difference between some species of ants and the wood destroying termites.
Flying ants have a three segmented body part which can be red, black or brown. Like other ants, flying ants have six legs, and two sets of veined wings, the front pair presenting itself longer than the rear pair. Unlike termites, flying ants have a set of elbowed antennae. Flying ants plague homeowners when ant colonies exist under floors or in wall voids. During springtime mating the colony produces winged males and females that are then released from the nest. When released indoors, these winged ants will gather at windows and other light sources, such as televisions and computer monitors. Flying ants are not destructive pests, but they are annoying to deal with.
New Jersey pest control professionals warn that citronella ants are another type of annoying household pest that can invade New Jersey homes. Citronella ants have a distinctive odor of citronella and will often nest in structures or under concrete slabs. During the spring and summer months, citronella ants are often mistaken for termites when they swarm as termites do. Citronella ants are a nuisance when they invade your home, but they are considered harmless.
The eastern subterranean termite is known for its springtime swarming behavior. The termite has four white colored wings, all exactly the same length. The body of the eastern subterranean termite is black and is non-segmented. Unlike the ant species, the termite has two straight two antennae. Unlike flying ants and citronella ants, subterranean termites are a pest that should be fears. The presence of termites requires the help of a professional pest control expert for complete eradication.