Termites - Subterranean

What are subterranean termites?

Subterranean termites are social insects that live in colonies. These colonies are composed of different castes of termites, including soldiers, workers, and reproductive termites. Workers have no wings, are around 1/8 of an inch in length, and have a white or cream color to their bodies. They’re typically the most numerous members of the colony. Soldiers, which are also wingless, defend the colony against threats such as other insects—namely ants—that can attack the colony. They have large brown heads with prominent mandibles (jaws). Reproductive termites, the kings and queens, perform the reproductive functions of the colony. There may be several queen termites in one colony, but only one is active at any one time. Termites reproduce and spread their colonies through the use of winged reproductive termites known as alates. For a more detailed explanation of the termite life cycle, check out this comprehensive guide.

Subterranean termites differ from their drywood termite cousins in several ways, most notably the way in which they infiltrate your house. Subterranean termites cannot exist in the open air for very long because of the moisture they require, so they travel to and from your home via mud tubes.

Common signs of subterranean termites include the presence of these mud tubes, sightings of winged termite reproductive alates swarming outside your home, and extensive damage to the wood of your home.

Why do I have termites?

Subterranean termites feed on wood but can also thrive on other items containing cellulose, such as paper, fiberboard, and fabrics. Termites found in the wood of homes or other structures usually come from colonies that have already been established in soil. Termites throughout Florida—and especially in Tampa, Jacksonville, and Gainesville — typically spread during a swarming season, which takes place from January through May. They may also swarm to a lesser extent at other times of the year depending on the weather and other conditions

Are termites dangerous?

Termites do not pose a health risk to humans. They are, however, responsible for millions of dollars in property damage each year. Because they eat wood, termites are capable of causing great destruction to the structure of your home and any wood byproducts inside. If you think you may have a termite problem, it needs to be taken care of immediately.

How do I get rid of termites?

Getting rid of termites is a difficult job because the colony attacking your home may actually be located several feet from the structure. Termites excel at avoiding detection until they’ve caused extensive damage. If you think you could have a termite infestation, contact the pest control experts at McCall Service,contact the pest control experts at McCall Service, who can evaluate the issue and give you a free estimate. We take pest problems seriously and will work to respond to your needs promptly.

How can I keep termites from coming back or prevent this problem?

Termite problems are almost impossible to deal with alone. The best way to keep your home termite-free is with regular pest control services from McCall Service. To get started, call us today and schedule an appointmentcall us today and schedule an appointment with our pest professionals.


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