There are some topics that can cause people to tremble when people just bring them up. For some people that topic is mice. For others it is heights. Still, others are afraid of flying. While each person has their own unique set of things that will scare them or worry them there are a few topics that seem to bring feelings of uneasiness to almost everyone. Termites definitely fall into that category. If you mention the word termite undoubtedly people will start to squirm. How much do you truly know about termites though? Today A-Tex Pest Management is going to spend some time talking about termites with you. First, let’s start with some details about termites. The Latin name for termites is Isoptera. They belong to the phylum Arthropoda and the class Insecta. Here in the United States, there are over 40 different species of termites. Throughout the world, there are over 2,000 different termite species.
Types of Termites; Subterranean, Formosan & Dampwood
In the United States, the three most common termites are subterranean termites, Formosan termites, and damp wood termites. Subterranean termites are found in every state except Alaska. Their colonies can get extremely large with some being known to have as many as two million termites. They prefer to live in underground colonies or in moist secluded areas above ground. They are the most destructive species of termites in the United State. Formosan termites are originally from China. They are aggressive in nature. They can be found in Hawaii, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Virginia, Texas, Louisiana, Alabama, Florida, Tennessee, South Carolina, and California. Dampwood termites prefer to infest areas with high moisture content. Typically they do not infest houses because the wood is not wet. They are found in Pacific coastal and adjacent states, the desert or semi-arid southwest, and southern Florida.
Termite Identification
Termites range in color from white to light brown. Depending on their job in the swarm their color will vary. The termites that are able to reproduce have two wings. Termites are between ¼ and ½ inch in length. They have soft bodies with straight antennae. King and queen termites maybe just over an inch in length.
What Does Termite Damage Look Like?
The reason that termites frighten most people is that they can cause lots of damage to your home. They feed on dead plants and trees. They get their nutrients from cellulose. Cellulose is an organic fiber found in wood and plant matter. Their diet consists mainly of wood but they will also eat paper, plastic, and drywall. If they get into your home they will eat away at the wood and drywall in your home. The problem with termites is that by the time you see the signs of infestation extensive damage has already been done. Termites cause billions of dollars in damages each and every year.
Signs of Termites
There are some signs of termite infestation that you can watch for. You may notice the mud tubes that they build on the exterior of your home. Another sign is wood that sounds hollow when it is tapped. Termite infestation can cause wood structures to darken or blister. They can also cause the paint to bubble or become uneven. One of the signs that people see first is small piles of feces that looks like sawdust or discarded termite wings near their doors or windowsills.
Termite Pest Inspections, Control Treatments, Removal & More in Round Rock, Leander, Pflugerville, Cedar Park & Austin Texas
If you see any signs of termites in your home you will want to call a professional right away. Getting rid of termites on your own is extremely challenging. Our technicians here at A-Tex Pest Management can help you with our professional-grade products and tools. Don’t delay making your appointment. Remember the longer you wait the more damage that will occur. Contact us for a termite inspection today!