Termites
Insect Identification Service
If you want to know whether those are termite swarmers or ants you just found in the house, or want to know what species of termite you have, you can send your sample to the MSU Extension Insect Identification Lab. Just place several of the insects in a small leak-proof bottle of ethyl alcohol and package for mailing. Be sure to include your contact information and information about the sample.
Wrap samples in paper towels or other absorbent padding and place in a crush-proof container for mailing.
Mail to:
MSU Receiving Station
Attn: Extension Insect ID Lab – 9775
405 East Garrard Road
Starkville, MS 39759
The Extension Insect ID Lab also provides identification and control recommendations for other types of insect pests.
There is no charge for insect identifications.
Find more information about insect identification on the MSU Extension Insect Identification section.
Note: We cannot identify termite workers to species by physical examination. If you want to know what species of termite you have, do not send samples that contain only workers. Be sure to collect some soldiers and/or swarmers. Soldiers or swarmers that are preserved in good condition can readily be identified to species. See the section on termite biology to learn how to distinguish workers, soldiers, and swarmers. Be sure to preserve samples in alcohol. Ethyl alcohol is best, but isopropyl alcohol will also work.