S & W Pest Management Inc : Insect Guide

Pest Guide » Termites » Subterranean Termites:

Subterranean Termites
Color: Creamy brown
Legs: Six
Shape: Long, narrow, oval
Size: 1/8"
Antennae: Yes
Flight: Yes

Subterranean termites live in underground colonies or in moist secluded areas aboveground that can contain up to 2 million members. Soldier subterranean termites are of a similar body length, but are distinguished by their powerful mandibles. Solider termites have cream-colored bodies and brown heads. Reproductive subterranean termites are approximately one inch long. Subterranean termites live underground and build tunnels, referred to as mud tubes, to reach food sources. Subterranean termites swarm in the spring, when groups of reproductive termites go off to start new colonies.

Subterranean termites need contact with the soil to survive and live underground. They can build tunnels through cracks in concrete.

Prevention Outdoors:

Store fire wood away from your home and remove piles of lumber or other decaying wood that could serve as a nesting site.
Keep mulch less than 2" thick and at least 12" away from foundations.
Eliminate sources of moisture such as leaky faucets, plumbing, and free-standing water. Also, make sure that your sprinkler system does not spray directly onto the foundation of your home or business.

Prevention Indoors:

To prevent entry into a structure, seal all internal and external cracks and crevices and be sure that wood is sealed with a uniform coating of paint, varnish or other sealant to prevent easy access by termites.
Use 20-mesh screen on all windows and doors, and especially at ventilation openings for attics and crawl spaces.

If you would like to make an appointment with S & W Pest Management, please fill out the online appointment form or call 1-877-989-BUGS.