Formosan Termites
Formosan termites are an exotic species that was accidentally introduced to the U.S. from China and other Asian countries. Their habits are very much like those of our common subterranean species. They are in the same family of termites, but they belong to a different genus. They are a little bigger and are much more aggressive invaders, forming larger colonies (often 2 million or more). Formosan termites can establish secondary colonies in very moist wood of upper stories of buildings (several stories above ground) and do not need soil contact if there is a nearly-constant moisture source. They have been reported in 11 states including California, Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas. Their distribution will probably continue to be restricted to southern areas because their eggs will not hatch below about 20°C (68°F). If you think you might have an infestation of this species, contact us to confirm their ID.
Drywood Termites
Drywood termites live in wood which has a fairly low moisture content and is not in contact with the soil or any other moisture source. They must get their needed moisture from the wood they live in, so they are usually found in humid coastal or subtropical areas. They can be transported to other areas in infested furniture, picture frames, decorative wooden objects, or wood for construction. Colonies of these termites are relatively small (fewer than 3,000 individuals), and they increase slowly, requiring several years before any swarmers reproduce. They do not build mud “shelter tubes” which are typical of most species of subterranean termites. Their damage is usually localized, but quite a bit of damage can result from multiple colonies in one building or structure. Drywood termites can successfully be eliminated by a variety of methods which would not be effective against subterranean species. Heating, freezing, focused microwaves, or high-voltage electric charges on or into all or a portion of the infested structure, or wooden object(s), can kill off whole colonies. Batch fumigation of infested wooden items can also be effective against these termites.
To learn more about how we can develop a termite management plan best suited to your situation, contact BPC Pest Control today.
