![ant and termite comparison](/extension.umd.edu/sites/extension.umd.edu/files/styles/optimized/public/2021-02/HGIC_insects_ant_termite_comparison.jpg?itok=g-443qot)
Comparing winged ants and termites
Flying ants may be distinguished from termites by the following:
Ants
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Elbowed antennae.
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Front wings longer than hind wings, tinted brown.
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Pinched or "wasp-waist".
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Body black, brown or reddish.
Termites
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Straight antennae.
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Front and hind wings similar in shape and or equal length, pale, translucent.
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Body extends straight back from head, does not have pinched or "wasp-waist".
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Body blackish-brown to black.
![drawing comparing details of a termite and an ant](/extension.umd.edu/sites/extension.umd.edu/files/styles/optimized/public/2021-02/HGIC_insects_termite_and_ant.jpg?itok=OR7_JAhU)
![flying ant](/extension.umd.edu/sites/extension.umd.edu/files/styles/optimized/public/2021-02/HGIC_insects_flying_ant.jpg?itok=6LIu0X7C)
Photo: F. E. Wood
![termite swarmer and ant](/extension.umd.edu/sites/extension.umd.edu/files/styles/optimized/public/2021-02/HGIC_insects_termiteswarmer_ant.jpg?itok=s9y3L_hZ)
Photo: EPA