Both insects live in large colonies and are often confused with one another, but they interact very differently in nature. While termites feed on cellulose found in wood, ants are opportunistic predators that sometimes see termites as food.
Yes, many species of ants will attack and eat termites. Fire ants, black ants, and even carpenter ants have been known to prey on termite colonies when the opportunity arises. These encounters often happen when ants discover termite tunnels or nests and invade to hunt. Although termites live in large colonies with defensive soldiers, ants are skilled hunters and can overpower groups of termites.
So, ants can eat termites, but do termites eat ants? No, termites are not predators. They eat wood and plant matter, not other insects. Ants are the hunters, and termites are the prey.
Though they’re sometimes mistaken for one another, ants and termites have distinct differences.
Ants have narrow, pinched waists, bent antennae, and reproductives have different-sized wings that aren’t as long as a termite’s. They are scavengers and opportunistic predators, feeding on a wide variety of foods, including other insects. Some species, like fire ants and carpenter ants, will actively hunt termites when they come across their tunnels or nests.
Termites, on the other hand, have thick waists, straight antennae, and swarmers have wings of equal size that are larger than their body. Unlike ants, they are not hunters. Termites feed primarily on cellulose found in wood and plant material, and their ability to digest it threatens homes and buildings. Their behavior centers on tunneling, feeding, and expanding their colonies, which can cause structural damage over time.
For more guidance on spotting the differences between ants and termites, visit our termite identification guide.
Seeing ants eating termites in or around your property doesn’t mean the termite problem is solved. Ants may reduce a small portion of the colony, but they likely won’t destroy an entire colony, and an ant infestation can be just as problematic as termites.
If you suspect a termite infestation, the best step is to arrange an inspection and rely on professional termite control if needed. Our technicians can confirm the signs, assess the level of activity, and recommend treatments tailored to your home.
No. While they may cross paths, termites and ants do not share colonies. Ants are predators and will attack termites when they find them.
Ants can kill termites, but they cannot wipe out infestations inside homes, and are not a viable termite control solution. For a lasting solution, a professional inspection and treatment are recommended.
Ants and termites both present distinct risks to homeowners, and whether one is worse than the other depends entirely on the species and the level of infestation. Termites are generally considered more destructive, however.
Yes, they may prey on termites if they find them. Along with other species such as fire ants and black ants, carpenter ants can attack termite workers or soldiers when they invade their tunnels.
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