What To Look For When You Are Looking For Signs Of Termite Infestation
Wednesday, 18 November 2009 09:10 | 
Written by Don Rodriguiez |
You see a swarm of insects outside your home one bright and sunny spring day. You immediately think termites. But how do you know what they are? After all, swarming ants are very similar to swarming termites. What are the signs of termites? Can you recognize them?
You see a swarm of insects outside your home one bright and sunny spring day. You immediately think termites. But how do you know what they are? After all, swarming ants are very similar to swarming termites. What are the signs of termites? Can you recognize them?
In terms of swarms, to know for sure you would need to get close but you probably do not want to do that. So wait until the swarm passes or stops and then gather up a few of the wings and examine them closely. There are some distinct patterns of the wings that are different from those of ants and a good book on the two species will point out the differences to you. Or, you can call your county extension office or a pest control company.
You will be required to look for additional signs if you conclude that the wings are those of termites. This is because the swarm could be a sign that the termites are leaving your home, although only what are called alates swarm so even if they are leaving, extensive damage could have been done to your home and a colony is being left behind by the swarm. Of course, if they have just arrived, then you need to take quick action to prevent damage to your property.
Here are some of the things you should look for. Did you notice the path of travel the pests took? Did they disappear into the ground, a nearby tree, your house, or did they fly away from your property? If you find a lot of wings in a pile next to the foundation of your house or a tree it could mean the critters entered the ground or the tree. Look closely at the ground and see if you can see tunnels leading away from the surface.
Do you see a powdery substance on wood or a wood product or nearby tree? If you have dead trees or tree stumps in your yard these should be examined with extreme care. Is there a sticky substance on the foundation of your house? Do you see droppings or sand-like grains?
You see a swarm of insects outside your home one bright and sunny spring day. You immediately think termites. But how do you know what they are? After all, swarming ants are very similar to swarming termites. What are the signs of termites? Can you recognize them?
In terms of swarms, to know for sure you would need to get close but you probably do not want to do that. So wait until the swarm passes or stops and then gather up a few of the wings and examine them closely. There are some distinct patterns of the wings that are different from those of ants and a good book on the two species will point out the differences to you. Or, you can call your county extension office or a pest control company.
You will be required to look for additional signs if you conclude that the wings are those of termites. This is because the swarm could be a sign that the termites are leaving your home, although only what are called alates swarm so even if they are leaving, extensive damage could have been done to your home and a colony is being left behind by the swarm. Of course, if they have just arrived, then you need to take quick action to prevent damage to your property.
Here are some of the things you should look for. Did you notice the path of travel the pests took? Did they disappear into the ground, a nearby tree, your house, or did they fly away from your property? If you find a lot of wings in a pile next to the foundation of your house or a tree it could mean the critters entered the ground or the tree. Look closely at the ground and see if you can see tunnels leading away from the surface.
Do you see a powdery substance on wood or a wood product or nearby tree? If you have dead trees or tree stumps in your yard these should be examined with extreme care. Is there a sticky substance on the foundation of your house? Do you see droppings or sand-like grains?
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