Termite Vs Ant
Termite-Swarmers
Subterranean termites cause over a billion dollars a year in damage to homes. It is estimated that subterranean termites affect over 500,000 homes annually. Controlling subterranean termites requires knowledge of construction, subterranean termite biology, and the latest in state of the art termite control technologies. Termite colonies may take up an area as large as two acres. Only a small percentage of workers forage for food and feed the entire colony.
Termite detection is sometimes difficult as termites do not always swarm in visible areas. In fact over the last decade we have seen fewer termite swarms than in previous decades. There is some evidence that termite may now be mating underground as opposed to the typical springtime above ground swarms
On Long island, termite baiting systems are the primary choice in controlling termites and are considered the most eco friendly termite treatment available. Termite Baiting Systems are composed of bait stations that are placed at intervals around the home. These stations contain an attractive cellulose material that termites begin to feed on. Termites continuously and randomly forage for food in about a quarter acre radius from their main colony. Once they find their way into a termite bait station and begin to feed, they leave behind pheromones that alert other foragers that food has been found.
When these stations are checked by the pest management professional, the cellulose or wood monitor is replaced with the active ingredient to eliminate the colony. Unlike liquid termiticides that poison termites and leave a termite barrier in place, the bait used to eliminate termites are insect growth regulators that prevent termites from molting. This kills off the workers and causes the queen to die of starvation as the workers are no longer able to feed and service the termite queen.
It is a good idea for homeowners to do a self inspection of their home at least once a year. You may want to familiarize yourself in what to look for by searching the internet for pictures of termites, termite tunnels and photos of termite damage.
Once you have a good idea of what to look for start by examining the foundation between the soil and the bottom of the siding. You are looking for termite tunnels made of sand and when broken will contain small, white colored termites. Also pay close attention to the base of wood trim close to the ground such as garage door jams, kick plates below doorways and the base of fences near the house. Finally do an inspection of the interior focusing on the wood sill plates of the basement and crawl spaces especially behind the stoop areas. On cement slab homes check the sheet rock with a flashlight from a side angle to identify any irregularities on the wall board.
Most professional termite control companies will provide a free termite inspection if you are not inclined to perform your own termite inspection. Either way, check your property annually for termites it could save you thousands of dollars in future termite damage repairs.
For more information on termite inspection and control, please contact or email us on our website.
Kevin O’Connor, Entomologist- Eliminex Pest Control Inc.