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Termites

Wood-feeding social insects (often called "white ants") that can cause serious structural damage to Australian homes. PestMan covers the basics; in-depth termite information will be provided by TermiteMan.au.

Written by PestMan Editorial TeamTechnical review pendingPublished Updated
In-depth information: TermiteMan.au

PestMan’s dedicated termite resource (in development) will cover termite biology, inspections and management in depth. PestMan covers the basics below so you can recognise the problem and take the right first step.

Also called
White ants (but not ants)
Risk
Structural damage
If found
Don't disturb; get an inspection
In-depth resource
TermiteMan.au (coming soon)

Termite identification

How to recognise termites

  • Pale, soft-bodied workers about 4–6 mm.
  • Straight antennae and no narrow waist (unlike ants).
  • Winged swarmers with two pairs of equal-length wings.

Termite overview

Termites are not ants. They have straight, bead-like antennae, a thick waist and pale, soft bodies. Subterranean termites travel through soil and mud tubes to reach timber and can damage buildings unseen.

If you suspect termites, do not disturb the activity or spray it, as this can make the colony harder to locate and treat. Arrange an inspection by a licensed timber pest inspector.

Behaviour

  • Avoid light and open air; travel in mud tubes.
  • Swarm on warm, humid evenings, often after storms.

Habitat

  • Soil, tree stumps, buried timber and building timbers in contact with moisture.

Lifecycle

  • Colonies with a king and queen, workers, soldiers and reproductives.

Food sources

  • Cellulose in timber, paper and plant material.

Entry points

  • Through soil, cracks in slabs and gaps in termite barriers.

Infestation signs

  • Mud tubes on walls, piers or slab edges.
  • Hollow-sounding or damaged timber.
  • Discarded wings after a swarm.

Health implications

  • Termites are not a health risk; the concern is structural damage.

Prevention

  • Keep timber and garden beds away from the house and fix leaks.
  • Maintain termite barriers and have regular inspections by a licensed timber pest professional.

Treatment overview

  • Termite management and inspections should be carried out by licensed timber pest professionals.
Product safety

If you use any pest product, read the label first and follow it exactly — it is a legal requirement in Australia. Keep products away from children, pets and food areas as the label directs.

Questions about termites

Guide

Pests in Queenslander Homes

How the raised timber construction, sub-floors, verandahs and gardens of Queenslander homes affect pest pressure, and practical steps owners, buyers and renovators can take.

Ants

Social insects that live in colonies and follow scent trails to food and water. Most ant problems in homes are nuisance foraging trails from colonies outside the house.

Have a question about termites?

Ask PestMan. We’ll show you any answers we already have — and if we don’t have one yet, your question helps decide what we answer next.

Sources & further reading

PestMan provides general information only and does not replace licensed pest-management, medical, veterinary or structural advice. Always read and follow product labels. Read our disclaimer.