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Termites are highly social insects that live in large colonies where the population can reach more than 1 million. A colony consists of several structurally differentiated forms living together as castes (including reproductives, soldiers and workers) with different functions in community life. In the spring, winged reproductives leave the parental nest in swarms to create a new colony. The swarming lasts less than an hour, so it's very likely you'll never see it. The winged reproductives look like flying ants, for which they are often mistaken.
You're more likely to discover you have a termite problem by finding the evidence rather than seeing the actual termites themselves. If you encounter any of these telltale signs, there is a good chance termites are snacking on your home. They are feeding on your home 24 hours 7 days a week. Whether you see them or not.
- Piles of small, delicate wings shed by reproductives
- Mud tubes built by termites for above-ground travel
- Damaged or hollow-sounding wall
- Pinholes in drywall or wallpaper
- Dead or live termites
Conducive Conditions
- Plumbing leaks
- Shower pan leaks (number one area)
- Foundation cracks
- Soil grade above foundation
- Firewood stacked
- Wooden fence attached to house
- Mulch planters built onto homes
- Overgrown shrubbery
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