Western subterranean termites are a destructive pest that can cause severe structural damage to homes if left unchecked. As a homeowner, it is important to be aware of the dangers these pests pose and the steps you can take to protect your property. This article will provide an introduction to western subterranean termites, their habitat, and the damage they can cause.
Overview of Termites
Biology
Termites are social insects and are related to cockroaches, though they are much smaller. They have translucent wings and antennae, and the queen and king are the only members of the colony with fully developed wings. They are generally cream to brown in color and measure 1/4 to 1/2 inch in length.
Distribution
Western subterranean termites are found in the western United States and Canada, as well as in Mexico. They are the most widely distributed and economically important termites in the region. They are found in areas with mild to warm climates and sufficient soil moisture.
Habits and Nesting
Western subterranean termites feed on cellulose materials such as wood, paper, and cardboard. They enter structures through tiny cracks in foundations or through wood-to-soil contact. They typically build their nests in soil near the structure they are infesting. Colonies can range in size from several thousand to several million.
Biology
Western subterranean termites are small insects that belong to the genus Reticulitermes. They are wood-eating insects that live in colonies and feed on cellulose found in wood, paper, and other materials. They have a two-part body composed of a head and a thorax, and their wings are four times as long as their bodies.
Distribution
Western subterranean termites are found throughout western North America, from California to Alberta. They are most common in moist areas, such as near streams, lakes, and rivers.
Habits and Nesting
Western subterranean termites build underground nests, typically in soil or wood. They feed on wood and other cellulose-based materials, and they can cause extensive damage to structures if left unchecked. They are most active at night and during periods of high humidity.
Control Methods
- Inspection of the structure for signs of termite activity and damage
- Identification of the species of termite infesting the structure
- Identification of their mode of entry into the structure
- Elimination of conditions that make the structure attractive to termites
- Chemical control of termites
- Monitoring of the structure to detect early signs of infestation
1 Prevention
- Inspect the foundation of your home for signs of termite activity.
- Keep the soil around your home free of excess moisture.
- Remove wood debris, such as stumps and logs, from the yard.
- Make sure wood in contact with the soil is treated with a chemical repellent.
- Keep firewood, lumber, and other wood products away from the home.
- Eliminate any potential sources of moisture, such as leaky pipes, faulty gutters, and clogged drains.
- Inspect any new plants or trees for signs of termite activity before bringing them into your home.
- Install weather stripping around windows and doors to help keep out the elements.
- Seal any cracks or crevices in the foundation or walls of your home.
2 Extermination
Western subterranean termites can be controlled through various extermination methods. The most common method used is a liquid pesticide, known as a termiticide. The termiticide is used to create a barrier around the perimeter of the building to prevent the termites from entering. This barrier must be applied and maintained regularly, as it breaks down over time. Other methods of extermination include bait systems, fumigation, and heat treatment. Bait systems use stations filled with cellulose-based bait to attract and poison the termites. Fumigation involves sealing off the entire structure and flooding it with a gas that is toxic to termites. Heat treatment involves using a heater to raise the temperature of the structure to a level that is lethal to the termites.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of termites are considered Western Subterranean Termites?
Western Subterranean Termites are a species of drywood termites that are native to the western United States. They are most commonly found in the western states such as California, Arizona, and Nevada. They can also be found in other areas of the United States. Western Subterranean Termites are one of the most common types of termites in the US and can cause significant damage to structures if not treated properly. They are usually light brown in color and have a long, cylindrical body. They feed on wood, paper, and other cellulose materials and can be found in both dry and damp environments.
Are Western Subterranean Termites Dangerous?
Western subterranean termites can cause significant damage to structures, furniture and other wooden items, making them a serious pest. Although they do not pose a direct threat to humans, they can cause significant economic losses if left unchecked. Treatments are available to protect structures from infestations, but it is important to act quickly once an infestation is detected.
How can I identify Western Subterranean Termites?
Western Subterranean Termites are identified by their small size (1/4 inch), pale color, and straight antennae. They have a dark brown head and two dark brown/black bodies. They have a straight antennae and six legs. Western Subterranean Termites are often referred to as “white ants” because of their white, soft bodies. They are social insects and live in large colonies. They usually build their nests in the ground, but they can also build them in wood structures. Western Subterranean Termites feed on wood and other cellulose materials. Signs of an infestation include mud tubes, wood damage, and discarded wings from the swarmers. To identify an infestation, it is important to look for these signs and contact a professional pest control company for further assessment and treatment.
Are Western Termites the same as Western Subterranean Termites?
Western Termites and Western Subterranean Termites are two distinct species. Western Termites are found in the western parts of the United States and are considered dry wood termites. Western Subterranean Termites are found in the western and southwestern parts of the United States, and they are considered soil-dwelling termites. Western Subterranean Termites build their colonies in the soil and can cause extensive damage to wooden structures.
What kind of damage can Western Subterranean Termites cause?
Western Subterranean Termites can cause extensive damage to wooden structures, such as furniture and the wooden frames of buildings. They can also damage drywall and insulation, as well as paper products. In extreme cases, they can even cause structural damage that requires costly repairs.
Conclusion
Western Subterranean Termites are a serious, costly pest that can cause significant damage to homes and buildings. To protect against an infestation, homeowners should inspect for signs of termites regularly, and eliminate any potential sources of food and moisture. Pest control professionals can provide additional protection against termites through the implementation of preventative treatments.
