ALL ABOUT TERMITES

ALL ABOUT TERMITES – SERVING THE LOS ANGELES, CA AREA

Of all the species of termite in America, subterranean termites are typically the most destructive. In nature, subterranean termites are beneficial, as they break down dead trees and other woody materials that would otherwise accumulate.

These termites live in colonies composed of workers, soldiers and reproductives. The workers, which are about 1/8 inch long, are the most common in the colony. Soldiers defend the colony against other insects, such as ants. Winged reproductives are responsible for mating, and pairs of these termites form new colonies.

Subterranean termites are capable of obtaining moisture from the soil and feeding on the wood (cellulose) available in tree and plant life. Since subterranean termites require a constant supply of moisture to survive, they must always be on the move, foraging through their tunnels or tubes in search of ever more food and water. Reproductive termites, commonly known as swarmers, typically emerge from the colony around springtime after the rains, and look like black winged ants. A common visual sign of subterranean termites is a tube or tunnel going up a wall from the ground. Because these termites emerge from the ground, soil treatment is the only way to control an infestation.

Among the most common of household pests, drywood termites feed chiefly on wood, from which they obtain cellulose. Although they can be found throughout many parts of the world, most drywood termites thrive in tropical climates.

Some species in Africa and Australia build huge mounds to house their colonies. In the United States, drywood termites tend to swarm from late summer to early fall, spreading their colonies and starting new colonies wherever opportunity allows. They will attack trees, fence posts, stumps and wooden buildings.

These pellets are actually the droppings of the termites infesting your home. For as much damage as you can see, there is always damage you cannot see. Termites have caused billions of dollars in structural damage to homes throughout the U.S. Regular inspections are critical to preventing serious loss and major repair bills.

Drywood termites obtain all of their food and moisture from the wood and physically live inside the wood they have infested. As a homeowner, you should look for signs of termites, such as pellets on window sills or in garage areas. Another sign of termite infestation is the presence of swarmers (reproductives), which look like flying red ants. The exterior eaves or patio members of a home are common areas to find damage to wood. Because these termites live inside the wood, it is virtually impossible to locate all of the possible activity. For this reason, the fumigation-tenting of a home is still the best choice for eradication.

For more information on termites and other common pests, please contact us today at 877-606-2847