The key is distinquishing the swarmer from a flying ant. The wings on the swarmer are not clear but have a milky, translucent appearance. Termites are broad waisted compared to the ants very narrow 'waist'. Ant antennae are elbowed where a termites are straight. Ant's front pair of wings are noticeably larger than the rear pair. The termite swarmer's are close to the same size. The flying ant does NOT lose it's wings.