Characteristics: Workers are cream-colored and wingless. Soldiers have a large brown head, cream-colored body, and are wingless. Swarmers are almost black, and have two wings.
Behavior:
Subterranean termites use a network of mud tunnels underneath soil to gain access to wood.
They eat and excavate wood.
Western subterranean termites are the most common and destructive termite in North America.
They have saw-like jaws.
These termites are specifically more likely to be found in developed areas, rather than rural areas.
Found throughout most of the continental United States, subterranean termites are the most common and most destructive termites in North America. They nest underground in colonies of two to ten million individuals. These termites tunnel within the soil, connecting their underground network to a food source. Once a source of wood has been found, they build mud tubes to begin feeding. Most of their feeding and tunneling is done completely out of sight.
Preventing Problems with Western Subterranean Termites
Subterranean termites can use their ability to stay hidden, their many swarmers and workers, and saw-like jaws to cause incredible amounts of damage to a home. Besides the presence of these tubes, the presence of discarded swarmer wings and visibly damaged wood are another sign of an infestation.
The best prevention against subterranean termites is making sure that they cannot enter a home. Because these termites need to connect their underground tunnels to feeding locations, they often utilize plumbing penetrations and cracks in foundations. Any and all cracks or utility holes where their tunnels can access a structure must be sealed shut.
Controlling and Eliminating Western Subterranean Termites
If a termite infestation is suspected, a licensed pest control professional should be called to inspect the building. This expert should also check the property, ensuring that it is adequately termite-proofed. If an infestation is found, the pest control expert can also treat the area to eliminate the termite invaders. At Pest Control Inc, we use a variety of different treatment techniques, including surveillance, baiting, and exclusion solutions.
