Have you ever seen a live termite? The thing is, most people have not. This does not mean, however, that termites are not around. These pests are everywhere. Most species live underground in massive colonies that consist of tens of thousands of members. One species that lives in our area is the Formosan termite. Something that makes this insect unique is how fast it damages wood. The question is, are they a threat to your home’s structure? Find out, here, and discover what methods work best to keep these pests off your Fort Worth property.
What Makes Formosan Termites Destructive?
Of all the species of termites in our area, Formosan termites are considered to be the most voracious. This is to say that they destroy properties faster than other species. One thing that makes these pests so destructive is how large their colonies tend to grow. It is not uncommon for a nest to host over a million members. Combine this with the fact that termites don’t sleep and you have a serious problem on your hand.
How To Identify Formosan Termites
Formosan termites are not much different in appearance than their close cousins, Eastern subterranean termites. The thing that sets these pests apart is the color and shape of their heads. Where an Eastern subterranean termite has a round cream-colored head, a Formosan termite’s head is darker in color, pointed, and has easily visible mouthparts. Although workers outnumber reproductives thousands to one, you are more likely to see a reproductive termite around your home than a worker. More specifically, you might see winged reproductives (swarmers).
When Do Formosan Termites Swarm?
Each year, usually during late spring or early summer, Formosan termites swarm. They do this to expand healthy, fully mature colonies. The good news is that swarmers are not the best at flying. They aren’t going to migrate several miles to a new property. That said, if you are seeing winged termites around your property, their colony is most likely nearby, if not somewhere beneath your yard. Seeing swarmers inside your living areas is an even worse sign as it might indicate a preexisting infestation inside your home’s wood.
How To Prevent Formosan Termites
Although more destructive than other species in our area, Formosan termites are still preventable. If your home is currently termite-free, and you would like to keep things that way, use these helpful DIY prevention tips.
- Eliminate organic clutter around your yard like leaf piles and sticks.
- Remove fallen trees and dead stumps from your property.
- Pour out water that has collected around your property.
- Have your gutters cleaned once a year and repair damage that occurs to them.
- Trim back bushes and tree branches around your home to create a five-foot dry barrier.
- Address leaky piping and fixtures in and around your home.
- Use a dehumidifier indoors to keep moisture levels down.
- Repair structural wood around your home that is water-damaged, rotting, or in decay.
What To Do If Your Home Has A Termite Infestation
Termites are notoriously hard pests to identify. To find out if your home or property is hosting these destructive creatures, let the experts at All-Safe Pest & Termite come out to have a look. One of our highly trained technicians will evaluate your property for signs of infestation, inform you of their findings, and walk you through your options for treatment if any threats are found. In addition to this service, we also offer year-round termite control to actively prevent and eliminate these invasive pests. Contact us today to schedule your Fort Worth property for a detailed service visit.