$1.5B+
Annual AU damage
1 in 3
Homes affected
$0
Insurance coverage
White Ants = Termites (Same Insect!)
“White ants” is simply the common Australian name for termites. They are not ants — they’re actually more closely related to cockroaches. This misconception leads many homeowners to underestimate the threat and buy ant spray instead of calling professionals.
Many Canberra homeowners hear “white ants” and think they’re dealing with a minor ant problem. They buy ant spray from the hardware store — which does absolutely nothing to termites. Meanwhile, the colony keeps eating through structural timber.
Termites vs Actual Ants: Key Differences
Termites (“White Ants”)
- Straight, beaded antennae
- Thick, broad waist
- Wings are equal length
- Pale/white body colour
- EAT WOOD — cause structural damage
True Ants
- Elbowed antennae
- Narrow, pinched waist
- Front wings longer than back
- Dark body colour
- Don’t eat wood — nuisance pest
Why This Confusion Costs Homeowners Thousands
Wrong Approach
$10-50K+
Repair cost after using ant spray
- Ant spray does nothing to termites
- Colony continues eating timber
- Damage invisible until severe
Right Approach
$300-500
Annual professional inspection
- Expert identification
- Early detection saves thousands
- Effective treatment if found
Professional Termite Identification & Treatment
Not sure if you have white ants or real ants? Bugs Patrol provides free identification during inspections and the most effective treatment available.
| Free ID Species identification | Termidor Chemical barriers | Sentricon Baiting systems |
Still have questions?
The best pest control company will solve your issue for a long time. Bugs Patrol is Canberra’s trusted choice for professional termite (white ant) control with lasting results.
Think You Have White Ants?
Don’t waste money on ant spray. Book a professional termite inspection with Bugs Patrol today.
White Ants / Termites FAQs
Yes! ‘White ants’ is the common Australian name for termites. Despite the name, they are not ants at all — they’re more closely related to cockroaches. Bugs Patrol treats white ants/termites with proven barrier and baiting systems.
Early Australian settlers noticed these pale, colony-living insects and called them ‘white ants’ due to their superficial resemblance to ants. The name stuck in everyday language even though termites are a completely different insect order.
Termites have straight antennae, thick waists, and equal-length wings. Ants have elbowed antennae, pinched waists, and unequal wing pairs. If you’re unsure, Bugs Patrol provides free identification during inspections.
Absolutely. Termites (white ants) cause over $1.5 billion in damage to Australian homes annually. They eat wood from the inside out, meaning damage is often severe before it’s visible. Bugs Patrol recommends annual inspections.
Chemical soil barriers (Termidor) and baiting systems (Sentricon, Exterra) are the gold standard. Bugs Patrol assesses your Canberra property and recommends the best solution for your construction type and risk level.
No. Termite treatment requires licensed professionals with access to commercial-grade chemicals and specialized equipment. DIY treatments can actually make infestations worse by causing colonies to split. Always call Bugs Patrol.
