Termites, a fact of life in the southwest, cause millions of dollars in damage to structures each year, primarily residences. No structure, not even brick or concrete slab construction, is immune to their insidious appetite. Yet termite infestation is often difficult to detect.

The first visible sign of termites may be a "swarm" appearing in the spring. If so, then it may only be the tip of the iceberg. Worker termites are active 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, foraging for new food sources (wood) and gathering food to nourish the rest of the termite colony: queens, soldiers, reproductives and young.

Are they ants or termites?

For clues to help distinguish termites from ants, examine the insects' wings, waist and antennae. While both insects have two pairs of wings, termite wings are relatively equal in size. Ant wings tend to be longer in front and shorter in back.
Ants also have a narrow, pinched waist, with three separate body parts. Termites' waists are thicker and less distinct.
In addition, ants' antennae are elbowed, while termites' are straight.

• Worker termites are soft and milky in color. They require a constant source of moisture to prevent dehydration. They travel through mud tubes that they build for protection from air and sunlight. Because they forage constantly for food, they often enter your home unseen and cause damage behind your walls.

Formosan Termite

Eastern Sub Termite

Drywood Termite

Soldier termite