If you suspect you’ve encountered termites in your home, we can assist you in confirming their presence through proper identification. Feel free to contact us for an on-site visit if you still have doubts.

In this article, we break down how to identify termites in Australia. It’s important to note that termites are often mistaken for ants and are commonly referred to as white ants. Typically, termites are larger than the black ants you usually see around your home, measuring about 0.7 mm to 1 cm in length. If you have spotted termites, chances are they may have retreated from the disturbed area, but they will likely return. Avoid using fly spray or DIY termite treatment products as a temporary fix.

A termite colony consists of various members, including Worker Termites, Soldier Termites, Elates or Winged Reproductives, a King, a Queen, and Nymphs (Babies). Let’s explore each type in more detail:

Worker Termites

Worker Termites: These termites work tirelessly to gather food, feeding on wood and traveling back to the nest. They construct mud tunnels and galleries in search of food, posing a threat to your home’s structure. Worker termites are creamy white with soft bodies and play a crucial role in the colony.

Soldier Termites


Soldier Termites: Easily recognizable by their large jaws, soldier termites defend the colony against threats. When disturbed, worker termites retreat, leaving the soldiers to protect the nest. Despite their blind and wingless nature, soldier termites use their mandibles for defense.
Reproductive Termites: Mature colonies produce reproductives with elongated wing buds, which later develop into winged sexually mature termites known as elates or swarmers.

Close up termites in the nests

Reproductive Termites


Reproductive Termites: Mature colonies produce reproductives with elongated wing buds, which later develop into winged sexually mature termites known as elates or swarmers.

Queen Termites

Queen Termites: The queen termite, often hidden in the nest, is responsible for laying eggs at an astonishing rate, ensuring the colony’s growth.

Termite King


Termite King: Assisting in caring for the young and servicing the queen, the termite king plays a vital role in colony maintenance.


Termites are known to swarm at certain times of the year, with thousands flying out to establish new colonies. Despite the impressive numbers, only a small percentage survive and successfully form new colonies. If you have concerns about termites or require assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.

At Complete Termite Solutions, we take pride in offering same-day on-site services, ensuring that our work meets Australian Standards and utilizes environmentally friendly products. Our qualified pest controllers have extensive experience, having served over 11,000 satisfied customers in various properties. Whether you’re a homeowner or a business owner, we are here to address your pest control and termite treatment needs effectively.

Feel free to contact us if you have any concerns or require assistance with termite issues.