Termite Identification

Termites are small, white, tan, or black insects that may cause damage to wood in structures. They feed on the main component of wood. Cellulose.

Termites are social and can form large nests or colonies, consisting of different members. Physically the largest individual is the queen. Her function is to lay eggs, sometimes thousands in a single day. A king is usually near her. Other individuals are the colony defending soldiers. However, largest group of termites in a colony is the workers. They work round the clock, tending the queen, building the nest, or gathering food.

Amazingly, subterranean termites are long-lived; kings and queens live for decades while workers may survive for 3-5 years.

Signs of termite infestation include swarming of winged forms in fall and spring and evidence of tunneling in wood.

Termites are sometimes confused with winged forms of ants, which also leave their underground nests in large numbers to establish new colonies and swarm in a manner similar to reproductive stages of termites. Sometimes flies - larvae (Maggots) can also be confused as termites.

Subterranean Termites

Subterranean termites require moist environments. To satisfy this need, they usually nest in or near the soil and maintain some connection with the soil through tunnels in wood or through mud or shelter tubes they construct. These shelter tubes are made of soil with bits of wood, feces excrement, or other materials. If unattended, termites may cause unforeseen treatment and repair costs.

Termite Life Cycle

Most termite species swarm in late summer or fall, although spring swarms are not uncommon for subterranean termites. New kings and queens are winged during their early adult life but lose their wings after leaving their original colony. An infestation begins when a mated pair finds a suitable nesting site near or in wood and constructs a small chamber, which they enter and seal. Soon afterward, the female begins egg laying, and both the king and queen feed the young on predigested food until they are able to feed themselves.

Once workers and nymphs are produced, the king and queen are fed by the workers and cease feeding on wood. Termites go through incomplete metamorphosis with egg, nymph, and adult stages. Workers also feed other colony members.

Termite Service Protocol

Termite management requires special skills, including knowledge of building construction. An understanding of termite biology and identification assists proper treatment techniques.

Management techniques vary depending on the species causing an infestation. Multiple colonies of the same species of termite or more than one species of termite can infest a building. Any of these variables will influence your control approach. Use an integrated program to control subterranean termites. We believe that Termidor is the superior market product today to correct a subterranean termite problem.