Shelter tubes and the damage they can do
subterranean termites
Subterranean Termites
A subterranean termite infestation begins when warm temperatures and heavy rainfall trigger an established colony to send out a swarm of winged termites. Swarms consist of winged reproductive males and females. Subterranean termite colonies are usually active for three to five years before winged reproductives appear. Winged, reproductive termites are frequently mistaken for flying ants, but are smaller than ants and have straight, rather than bent, antennae. Termite swarmers have four wings that are all the same size.
Termites live in colonies underground, from which they build tunnels in search of food; able to reach food above the ground level by building mud tubes. The most effective form of treatment is a Soil Application with TERMIDOR.
Different Types of Subterranean Termites:
Reproductive Swarmers:
Reproductive Swarmers:
Reproductive Swarmers:
They are dark brown to black and resemble a small Ant, about ¼ to ½ inch long with two pairs of wings. They tend to swarm in the spring but have been known to swarm in the summer. When they swarm, the count is usually in the hundreds.
Workers:
Reproductive Swarmers:
Reproductive Swarmers:
Do not have wings, they are about ¼ inch or less in length and cream / white in color. The travel to the wood back to the colony, supply food.
Soldiers:
Reproductive Swarmers:
Soldiers:
Do not have wings, they have large mandibles, cream / white in color and their heads are large and darker in color. They are the colony protectors, guarding the workers and the queen.