Termites are small, soft-bodied insects that can be found all over the world. They can be commonly found in homes and other buildings, feeding on wood and other materials that contain cellulose.
There are several different types of termites, each with unique physical characteristics and behaviors. Here are the most common types of termites that are found at home.
Drywood Termites
Drywood termites are among the most common termites found in homes and other buildings. These pests are characterized by their ability to live in wood without relying on any moisture for survival. As such, they can be difficult to detect, as the structural damage they cause often goes unnoticed until the infestation has become quite severe.
These pests are tiny, measuring only a few millimeters in length, but they can cause significant damage to your home if left unchecked. Unlike other termites, dry wood termites build large colonies within the structure of your house, taking refuge under insulation or inside wood studs and beams.
This makes them especially difficult to eliminate once they have established themselves. But with regular monitoring and treatment by a professional pest control service, you can protect your home from this harmful pest.
Dampwood Termites
These termites thrive in wet, moist environments and typically target decaying or rotting wood. Because they prefer to live in warm climates, damp wood termites are often found in Southern states like Florida and Texas. They build large nests outdoors, but their colonies can also extend into the walls of homes, where they will start to target structural wood over time.
Subterranean Termites
These termites prefer to live underground or under rocks or other objects. As their name suggests, subterranean termites tend to build nests and colonies underground, where they can access a constant supply of food and moisture.
Unlike other termites, subterranean termites are not usually found in homes and buildings; they typically prefer living outdoors and only occasionally venture into structures when looking for new food sources. However, because they do like to burrow deep into damp soil, it is crucial to watch for signs of a subterranean termite infestation at home, such as damaged wood or pools of dirt around your foundation.
Formosan Termites
Formosan termites are native to China and Taiwan but have been introduced to many other parts, including the United States. They live in colonies that can contain millions of individuals. They build long tunnels in search of food, and these tunnels can damage the structure of a home.
Formosan termites are particularly fond of wood, but they also eat paper, insulation, stucco, and cellulose materials. In addition, these pests often build their nests in the spaces between walls, making them difficult to spot. As a result, Formosan termites can cause significant damage to a home before they are discovered.
Desert Termites
These are a type of termite that is commonly found in desert regions. As their name suggests, they are specially adapted to living in dry, arid climates. They build their nests underground, where they can stay cool and moist. Desert termites feed on dead plant material, such as wood and leaves. They are particularly fond of mesquite trees.
Desert termites are small, dark-colored insects with long, slender bodies. They have two sets of wings that are equal in size. The front wings are longer than the hind wings. Desert termites can be a nuisance to homeowners because they can damage wood structures, such as fences and decks.
If you have termites, don’t worry. There are ways to get rid of them. You can either employ pest extermination or pest control. Whichever route you decide to take, make sure that the company you go with is licensed and insured. Pests can be a huge headache, but with the right help, you can get rid of them for good.