Termite Infestations

Eastern Subterranean Termites are one of the most common species of termites that infest Virginia homes. They also cause serious damages to homes and other structures costing the homeowners millions of dollars each year. Eagle Pest Services would like to share how to identify possible termite infestations and what to do if termites are found around your home and yard.

 

Diet of the Eastern Subterranean Termite

Eastern subterranean termites are found across America and as stated, they are one of the most common species found infesting homes. This is due to their ability to adapt to various climates. However, Eastern subterranean termites favor a cooler, moist climate which is why they dig their hives underground. This is where the soil remains damper and cooler. Besides shelter, the Eastern subterranean termites next essential need for survival is food. Eastern subterranean termites diet consists of cellulose, which is wood, paper, and cotton. They will also feed on the roots of trees and shrubs.

 

Eastern Subterranean Colony

A mature Eastern subterranean termite colony can have anywhere from three hundred thousand members up to five million members. A single queen can have between five thousand and ten thousands eggs in a single year. It’s not uncommon to find an Eastern subterranean termite colony with additional sub colonies working together to help each other. When a termite colony gets established they can live from to ten to thirty years.

 

Spring Termite Alates AKA Swarmers

Termites can remain active all year long and can go unnoticed for years. Termites become more noticeable during the spring because this is termite mating season. This is when the breeding males and females come out and begin to swarm in a cluster. Once the males and females have finished mating, the males will shortly die thereafter while the female will look for a new nesting site. The presence of swarmers indicates a nearby colony. Additionally, most female termites don’t go far from home which is why it’s common to find sub colonies. Alates or the swarmers look a lot like black ants with long tear dropped shaped wings. The wings of the Eastern Subterranean Termite are transparent with a black tint while some may be white. Watch for swarmers during the spring along with discarded wings near window ledges, on porches, or around decks. Another sign of Eastern subterranean termites is mud tunnels on the surface of the ground or climbing upward on the side of your home or on other structures. They often look like mud veins. These tunnels provide protection for subterranean termites from both predators and the heat of the sun.

 

Termite Prevention

Before termite mating season you will want to take steps to protect your home from termites. Check around your home, especially around the base or foundation for cracks or exposed wood. Seal any exposed wood or cracks around your home with a caulking glue. Next, use fine mesh screens to cover your vents, which includes dryer vents and the attic vents. These are most vulnerable to termites. Remove any unwanted wood, dead leaves, and branches. For those who keep a wood stack, make sure it is at least a foot off the ground to prevent termites.

 

Termite Inspections & Treatment

If signs of termites are found around your yard or around your home, contact a professional pest control company immediately. With professional aid, hopefully no termite damage will occur. Eagle Pest Services can inspect and treat homes with termites and prevent serious damages. For all pest control needs, contact Eagle Pest Services today.