Termites, sometimes incorrectly called “white ants”, are a group of social insects usually classified at the taxonomic rank of order Isoptera. Termites mostly feed on dead plant material, generally in the form of wood, leaf litter, soil, or animal dung, and about 10% of the estimated 4,000 species (about 2,600 taxonomically known) are economically significant as pests that can cause serious structural damage to buildings, crops or plantation forests. Termites are major detrivores and their recycling of wood and other plant matter is of considerable ecological importance. The most common type of termite throughout our region is the subterranean termite. These termites forage in search of cellulose material and typically are able to enter structures through cracks and crevices as thin as a single sheet of paper!
As social insects, termites live in colonies that, at maturity, number from several hundred to several million individuals. A typical colony contains nymphs (semi-mature young), workers, soldiers, and reproductive individuals of both genders, sometimes containing several egg-laying queens.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. I am seeing swarming, winged insects. Are they termites or ants?
Though swarming ants and termites are similar in appearance, it is possible for you to make an identification noting several distinguishing characteristics. Look at the side-by-side image of the termite and ant posted above.
Notice that the ant has a narrow waist. Termites always have a straight, thick waist.
Many of the swarming ants in our area are orange or brown in color. Swarming subterranean termites are always black. Ants have longer front wings than back. Termites have symmetrical front and back wings. Termites have straight antennae and ants have elbowed antennae. Termites do not fly well. They often flop and only fly short distances without control. Termites’ wings fall off very easily. You will generally find many wings and/or body parts lying around.
2. I had swarming termites, but they disappeared. Are they gone forever?
Termites normally only swarm during the spring or summer months. Swarming termites are often the first indication of a termite infestation. However, the termites that remain unseen are the ones that cause damage to the structure. Swarmers emerge in a effort to form new colonies.
3. Why drill and/or treat the soil in an effort to rid my home of termites?
Termites must return to the ground often. We have found that we are able to provide the most effective treatment by treating the soil. We utilize non-repellent termiticides for treatments. Once the termiticide is applied, the termites are unable to detect or avoid it.
4. How much will my termite treatment cost?
Termite treatment costs vary according to unique structural conditions. Some treatments require more product usage and labor for the exact square footage, depending on the amount of drilling and depth to the footer. We are able to provide you with the best estimate when we can see what it is that we will be treating. Estimates are always free, and we will be glad to answer all of your questions regarding cost and treatment specifics.
5. What precautions can I take to avoid termite damage and treatment costs in the future?
National Exterminators offers an annual termite control plan. The plan includes:
- An annual termite inspection. If at any time throughout the year, you suspect termites, then you may also receive an unlimited number of additional inspections. If there is an active infestation of termites, then National Exterminators will provide any necessary treatment at no additional charge.
- An annual application of Premise® Granules. Premise® is the original non-repellent termiticide; termites can’t sense it’s there, so they tunnel through the treated soil and become exposed to the active ingredient.
- Our termite control plan does require a free inspection prior to our issuance of termite protection. This inspection is free of charge and is performed solely to be sure that there are no active termites within the structure requiring more extensive initial treatment.
