Termites
Termites are among the most ancient of all insects. Their Fossilized remains have been found in formations of more than 100 million years old.
Despite the fact that Termites are a major nuisance to Humans, in nature they are actually beneficial. In nature termites recycle wood and other cellulose materials that other organisms cannot. Feeding by termites enhances the decomposition of organic matter and the return of nutrients to the soil.
With that being said, Termites alone cause over 5 billion in damage annually. More than 600,000 U.S. homes suffer from termite damage. This is more than the damage caused by all fires, earthquakes, and most natural disasters combined. More than 2 million homes require termite treatment each year. Homeowners insurance can help recover losses from fires, floods, and earthquakes, but it is almost impossible to get insurance against termites. www.npma.org
Like Other insects termites have six legs and a body divided into three main regions: head, thorax and abdomen. However, these regions are not distinguishable. They will appear to have a cigar shaped body. On the head you will find a pair of straight antennae, which consist of tiny bead-like segments. Mandibles are also located on the head of some termites (workers), used for eating, defense and other functions.
Individual Termites within a colony can appear quite different and they each perform specialized tasks. A termite colony includes workers, soldiers and reproductives. Workers typically out number the other castes, and the caste that feed on wood.
More than 2,300 species of termites exist worldwide, 50 of which are in the United States. Out of the 50 only about 20 are structural pest. Of these 20 structural pests the most destructive would be the “Subterranean” Termite Species.
At Hopper Termite and Pest Management, we offer you insurance and peace of mind against this structural pest, which is such a threat to you, your loved ones and home.
View our Service Agreements or Call us (501-362-8251) today to find out more information, on how to protect your home and loved ones.
Feel Free to browse our Pest Library in order to find out more information on Subterranean Termites.
Winged Reproductive Termites- “Swarmers”
Well, look out those might not be what you think they are! Subterranean termites have wings too!!
Every year, termite colonies push out reproductives from their colony in order to start new colonies. Therefore, in the spring to early summer, what the industry calls “swarmers” may appear in and around your home. These “swarmers” will emerge in great numbers. Winged termites can be distinguished from flying ants by their thick-waist, straight antennae and wings of equal size. “swarmers” will break off their wings shortly after their flight. The Presence of discarded wings is often a good indicator that swarming termites have occurred, even if you didn’t experience the “swarming”, thus a new colony is likely nearby. You will often find these Smokey grey wings discarded near doors, windows, and other sources of light because of termites’ natural attraction to light.
If you find “swarmers” outside of your home, it may not mean that your home has termite infestation; however it is a good reason to have a thorough inspection of your home or office completed. Termites in buildings often come from established colonies in the soil around the infested structure.
Look Out… You may have Termites!
Termite Signs…
- Straw- sized diameter, or larger mud tubes running across bare concrete or masonry between the soil and any wooden part of your building, inside or outside.
- Thin, papery and smokey grey wings all the same size and shape, 3/8″ to 1/2″ long on your windowsill, countertop or floor ( typically found in spring)
- Thin “bubbled”, raised or distorted areas of paint on wood surfaces ( including sheet rock)
- Any Wooden building parts that begin to sag unexpectedly (especially if they are supporting a structure)
If you find any of these occurring in your home or office, please feel free to call us today for your free estimate. At Hopper Termite and Pest Management, we will design a treatment plan and best fits your property and needs.