The differences can be subtle. Both are about 1/2 in length. Winged ants have elbowed (crooked) antennae and front wings longer than back wings. Termites have straight antennae and a thicker waist.

It is important to recognize the signs of a subterranean termite infestation. Subterranean termites may be detected by the sudden emergence of winged termites called swarms, or by the presence of mud tubes and wood damage. Other signs of termite presence include mud tubes and mud protruding from cracks between boards, beams, and basemet cielings. Subterranean termites transport soil and water above ground to construct earthen runways (shelter tubes) that allow them to tunnel across exposed areas to reach wood.

Powder-post beetles are a real menace that can cause serious damage to the wood in your home or business. These tiny pests are capable of destroying wooden furniture, floors, and structural elements, leaving you with an expensive repair bill.In NYC, these beetles are especially dangerous because of their ability to spread quickly and take up residence in our city's wooden structures. They lay their eggs in the cracks and crevices of wood, and the larvae bore into the wood, leaving behind a fine sawdust that is a telltale sign of their presence.

Adult furniture beetles don't eat wood, but their larvae, better known as woodworm, do. That means hardwoods and softwoods, even least 10 years old. Furniture beetles tend to lay their eggs in the crevices of wood frames, flooring, and furniture to give their larvae a food source when they hatch. These beetles (or their eggs and larvae) hitch a ride into the home inside infested furniture, so it is important to never bring in used furniture.