Usually ranging from 0.25 to 0.5 inches in length, termites possess supple bodies and straight antennae. Queens and kings, on the other hand, are larger, sometimes exceeding one inch in length. Their hues span from white to light brown, with worker termites typically appearing lighter and swarming termites darker. Flying termites, known as reproductives, boast two pairs of conspicuous wings.

There are several signs that could indicate a termite infestation in your home. One such indication is the sudden appearance of a temporary swarm of winged insects either within your home or emerging from the soil surrounding it. Additionally, be wary of any cracked or bubbling paint, as well as the presence of frass, which are termite droppings. If you notice wood that sounds hollow when tapped, it could be a further indication of termite activity. Another sign to watch out for is the presence of mud tubes on exterior walls, wooden beams, or in crawl spaces. Lastly, if you find discarded wings from swarmers, this could also point to a termite infestation.

Workers and soldiers of termite colonies typically have a lifespan of one to two years, while queens can survive for over a decade in favorable climates. Workers are tasked with foraging, feeding, and tending to the colony, while soldiers defend it with their mandibles. Reproductives, including kings and queens, are responsible for breeding. The termite life cycle begins with a mating flight where winged reproductives leave their colonies to establish new ones after shedding their wings. Queens lay eggs, which hatch into pale larvae. Through molting, these larvae develop into workers, soldiers, and reproductives. This process repeats as termites mature and fulfill different roles within the colony.