Publication 444-263, August 1996
SIZE: Up to 1/4 inch (12.7mm)
COLOR: Pale
DESCRIPTION: Termites are small, pale-colored insects. They live in colonies. The workers and soldiers do not have wings, but the fertile males and females do have long, thin wings.
HABITAT: Termite damage is usually first seen at or near the ground. However, damage can occur far above ground if the infestation has remained undetected for a long period. Termite-damaged wood has no sawdust associated with it; but, the wood does contain mud tubes and the galleries are lined with soil. Termite damage is sometimes located in wood adjacent to heaters or fireplaces. Perhaps, the soil in these areas remains at higher temperatures during the winter, or the drainage around fireplaces is poor and the soil remains moist for long periods.
LIFE CYCLE: A mature queen can lay thousands of eggs each year. Eggs are tended by worker termites. The nymph hatches directly from the egg. Attendants feed nymphs regurgitated food for the first two weeks, enabling them to grow. They will become workers, soldiers, reproductives, or supplementary reproductives.
TYPE OF DAMAGE: Termites actually eat wood and can cause physical damage. Termites often attack wood that is touching or close to soil.
CONTROL: Control of subterranean termites is best left in the hands of a professional pest control operator. The application of termiticides in and around the home-around pipes, wells, and heating ducts-requires experience and the proper tools. Chlordane has been removedfrom the market, but there are many other chemicals available for the prevention and control of termites.
INTERESTING FACTS: The queen can live for up to 10 years.