Termites can vary in shades of white, brown, and black, depending on their type, species, and age. They range in size from one-eighth of an inch to one inch long. Termites are sometimes confused with flying ants because both have wings and antennae. However, there are some key differences between the two. Here are some traits that can help identify termites:

• Workers: Workers are usually whitish and nearly identical across all species. They take care of eggs, maintain the colony, and look for food.
• Soldiers: Soldiers have similar coloring to workers but with large heads that are orange or amber in color.
• Reproductives: Swarming termites are darker with light brown (amber) or black bodies. The termite queen has a dark brown head and thorax with a whitish abdomen that is very enlarged. However, the termite queen is normally only found in the underground nest and is rarely ever seen.

Its important to note that different termite species can have different appearances. For example, drywood termites have orangish-brown heads and pale, whitish bodies, while Formosan swarmers are pale, yellowish-brown. Additionally, immature termites look very similar to adults and are white, soft-bodied insects.