Termites: Identification, Prevention and Control

Dampwood termites produce distinctive fecal pellets that are rounded at both ends, elongate, but lacking clear longitudinal ridges common to drywood termite pellets; flattened sides are noticeable. Winged reproductives typically swarm between July and October, but it is not unusual to see them at other times of the year. Pacific dampwood termites (Zootermopsis angusticollis)are the largest of the termites occurring in California. Winged reproductives are dark brown with brown wings. Soldiers have a flattened brown or yellowish brown head with elongated black or dark brown mandibles. Nymphs are cream-colored with a characteristic spotted abdominal pattern caused by food in their intestines. Nevada dampwood termites (Zootermopsis nevadensis) are slightly smaller and darker than the Pacific species; reproductives are about 3/4 inch (18 mm) long. Life Cycle Most termite species swarm in late summer or fall, although subterranean termites may also swarm in spring. An infestation begins when a mated pair finds suitable nesting site near or in wood and constructs a small chamber, which they enter and seal. Soon afterward, the female begins egg laying, and both the king and queen feed the young on predigested food until they are able to feed themselves. Once workers and nymphs are produced, the king and queen are fed by the workers and cease feeding on wood. Termites go through incomplete metamorphosis with egg, nymph, and adult stages. Nymphs resemble adults but are smaller. Adult termites may be soldiers, workers or reproductives; only the reproductives have wings. Soldiers have greatly enlarged heads and mandibles which they use to defend their colonies. Workers, the most numerous caste in colonies of many termite species, are responsible for constructing living chambers and tunnels and foraging for food. They also groom and feed one another and other colony members. More primative termite species such as the drywood termites, which do not have a worker caste, have these functions carried out by immature soldiers. Workers of the more advanced species probably evolved from this soldier caste. Reproductives are long-lived queens and kings that are winged during their early adult life but lose their wings after dispersing from their original colony. Damage Termites are the most destructive wood-destroying pest in the nation. At least 1 percent of the housing units in the United States require treatment each year for the control of termites. Utility poles, lumber, and other wooden structures may also be damaged by termites. Signs of infestation include swarming of winged forms in fall, winter and spring, and evidence of tunneling in wood. Darkening or blistering of wooden members is another indication of an infestation; wood in damaged areas is typically thin and easily punctured with a knife or screwdriver. Management Successful termite management requires many special skills, including a working knowledge of building construction. In most cases it is advisable to hire a professional pest control company to carry out the control program. However, some understanding of termite biology and identification can help a homeowner detect problems and work with professionals. Management techniques vary depending on the species causing an infestation. Also, more than one species of termite can infest a building at the same time, which influences your control approach. Subterranean, and less frequently, dampwood termites can have nests at or near ground level, so control methods for these can be similar. However, drywood termites nest above ground, therefore the approach for eliminating them is unique. Inspection Before beginning a control program, thoroughly inspect the building to obtain information about the infestation. Verify that there are termites, identify them, and locate the extent of their infestation and damage. Look for conditions within and around the building that promote termite attack, such as excessive moisture or wood in contact with the soil.

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