Termites vary greatly in appearance, depending on their role within the colony and their species. For example, workers are typically cream-colored or white with yellow heads. They're also some of the tiniest termites.

But a fertile termite that's preparing to reproduce can be more than twice the size of a worker, is typically much darker in color, and has long transparent wings.

Still, this general description isn't entirely accurate for all species of termites. So when checking your home for a termite infestation, you'll also need to consider the types of termites found in your area.