Do Termites Live or Die in the Winter?

There are several animals and even some insects that hibernate during the winter. If you suspect that you have a termite problem, you may be wondering if the problem will take care of itself during the cold months of winter. Unfortunately, just because temperatures are cooling off, doesn’t mean you should let your guard down when it comes to termite infestations. Eagle Pest Services is here to talk about what to expect from termites during the winter months.

How Does Cold Weather Affect Termites?

Termites are not an insect that goes dormant during the winter. If you suspect you have a termite problem, you should have it resolved as soon as possible so this destructive pest doesn’t cause more structural damage than they already have. Because termites do thrive in temperatures that are around 75 degrees Fahrenheit, you will notice a change in the way they behave during the winter months. They usually forage for food much closer to their nest. This helps keep damage in a more concentrated area.

Are the Winter Months a Good Time to Treat Termite Infestations?

The winter season is actually a great time to treat termite infestations. When they aren’t traveling far from their nests, termites are easier to treat. You can predict where they will be and strategically place the bait to yield better results. Sometimes using a bait to get rid of termites takes longer than other methods, but during the winter, they stay close to their nests and the use of baits can knock out an entire colony quickly during this time of year.

When are Termites Most Active?

The most important thing to remember is that there is no particular season for termites. They are active at all times during the year. They happen to stay closer to their nests or burrow deeper into the ground during the winter, but they are still alive and active. Termites are most active between the months of March and December. During these months you may notice:

• Swarms of termites looking to build new colonies.
• Termite feces left behind by the insects.
• Sawdust left behind by termite damage.
• Mud tubes on the foundation of your home.
• Rustling in the structure of your home, and a hollow sound when tapping on the wood.

How to Prevent Termite Damage

When trying to prevent termite damage to your home, the most important thing is a termite inspection. If you aren’t having your home inspected for termites, you will not know you have them. If this insect goes too long without being detected, they can cause serious damage to your home. It is worth having your home inspected annually to make sure you aren’t facing termite damage in the structure of your home. If there is any sign of termites in or around your home, you need to contact Eagle Pest Services as soon as possible to avoid costly damage to your home.