 Subterranean Termites are wood destroying
(eating) insects that live in the soil. They typically nest approximately 4 ft. below the
surface of the soil, but can nest as much as 12 ft. or more below the surface.Termites live in colonies which can contain several
thousand members and up to several hundred thousand members. These insects have a
"caste" structure which means that each "caste" has a different
function to perform, as well as, a different appearance.
Swarmers appear in the Northeast usually in April
and May. It is not unusual to have swarmer sightings as early as February if there is an
early thaw. After a swarm, the kings and queens mate and form a new colony. Swarmers loose
their wings soon after their brief flight. The presence of these wings indicate that a
swarm has occurred within the home or structure.
Winged termites (swarmers) which are usually
black in appearance, are often confused with carpenter ants. It helps to know the
difference.
Soldier termites protect the colony from
predators such as ants. That is their sole purpose and will fight to the death to protect
the colony.
The worker termites are very numerous, are white
to cream colored and are the providers for the colony. They are approximately 1/8th of an
inch in length.
They feed on wood or other materials that contain
cellulose, such as paper, cardboard, fiberboard and some fabrics as well. A small organism
lives in the digestive track of the insect. The protozoa helps to convert cellulose into
nourishing food.
Subterranean termites build "mud" tubes
to shelter them from low humidity and affords them a controlled atmosphere.
Termites can cause substantial damage over time,
and unless you know what to look for, you may not be aware that you have a problem. Houses
should be inspected at least once a year for evidence. This evidence could consist of
damaged wood, mud tubes, swarmer wings, or "sounding" the wood to check its
integrity.
Because of the insidious nature of this insect,
it is recommended that a professional check your home if you have any doubts of their
existence within the structure. Arrest-A-Pest will perform this inspection free of charge
if a written report is not required by a lending institution for the sale of the
structure. Otherwise, a charge will apply.
E-mail us with any questions you may have, or to
schedule a FREE inspection. You can also do it the old fashioned way be calling us at
(401) 738-3766 or 1 (800) 338-PEST.
Serving Rhode Island and Southeastern
Massachusetts. |
