Termites are a force of nature that can cause extreme amounts of damage. In fact, termites cause millions of dollars in structural and property damage every year. Homeowners should always keep a watchful eye out for any signs of termite activity.
We here at Pestcom Pest Management will share some of the common signs of termite activity and what you can do to control this costly problem.
There are six major species of termites that affect homeowners across the United States. There are:
- Dampwood
- Drywood
- Formosan
- Subterranean
- Conehead
- Desert Termites
Each has its dietary preferences and habitats. Some prefer to live underground and travel to their food sources and bring it back to their colonies much like ants. There are other species of termite that live and eat in wood and dead plant matter.
If they are present, you will find signs of each of these types of termites around your home and yard. Unless you know what you’re looking for, it can be rather difficult to find termites, especially those living in your home.
However, for those who educate themselves on termites and come to learn the signs of their activity, it will aid you to know when to hire a professional termite inspector that can find and help control or treat the termite colony.
In our great State of Idaho, Western subterranean termites and arid land subterranean termites are known to damage homes. Dampwood termites are also found here although they are less likely to damage structures due to their high moisture requirements.
Subterranean Termite Mud Tubes & Tunnels
Termites that are living in the wood may be around the outside or inside of your home. They will leave sawdust near the opening of their homes. Besides that, they will also create tunneling systems on the outside of walls and wood fixtures that will look like muddy veins. Subterranean termites will also make mud like tunnels traveling from their food source back to their colony.
Flying Termite Alates & Discarded Wings
The early spring is the mating season for termites. Both male and female termites that are the breeder termites will have wings. They seek out a mate and begin the start of the new colony. These winged termites are called swarmers or alates.
You may see them flying around homes, trees, and other wood objects where they can start a new colony. You may see these flying termites and mistake them for queen ants or winged ants. You may also see broken wings on window seals or near vents etc.
The swarm or winged termites, after mating, will break off their own wings and begin laying their eggs.
Need for Professional Termite Control
Pestcom Pest Management provides expert inspection and treatment for termites. Don’t let your home be invaded or destroyed by termites. Once you have seen any signs of these pests, contact us right away to schedule an inspection to determine proper treatment for your home.