A termite infestation is every homeowner's nightmare. However, did you know there are many different kinds of termites? As such, each infestation needs to be treated case by case and species by species, making pest control in San Antonio a tricky task. To narrow it down, Formosan termites are one of the most common species of termites to plague homeowners in the San Antonio area, so equipping yourself with knowledge will keep you one step ahead of this pest.
What Do Formosan Termites Look Like?
Formosan termites are originally from East Asia but were introduced to the United States in the 1950s. Formosan termites are insects that vaguely resemble maggots. They are creamy-white to brown in color, with six legs, and a long, oval-shaped body. Sexually mature Formosan termites have translucent wings covered in very fine hairs.
Where Do Formosan Termites Live?
Formosan termites prefer warmer climates, and so primarily live in the southern states. They build their nest in soil and try their best to stay out of the air for too long. They need almost constant moisture to survive. Therefore, they create mud tubes in which to travel to and from their colonies without having to be exposed to the air.
Formosan termite underground colonies are huge, with hundreds of thousands of termites living together in one colony. The Formosan termite queen can lay over 1,000 eggs a day, keeping their numbers high. Formosan termites are considered an aggressive species of termite; they are stubborn and will fight to remain wherever they are housed. As such, Formosan termites can cause an astounding amount of structural damage in a short amount of time. They can eat a foot of 2 by 4 wood every month! Formosan termites are not relegated to the wood that makes up your home, however, which broadens the likelihood of finding signs of termites. They will infest trees, decking, boats, landscaping, and even electrical wires. In 2005, in the United States alone, it was estimated by the National Pest Management Association, that termites caused over five billion dollars in damages each year!
Formosan Termites vs. Subterranean Termites: Key Differences
Although Formosan termites and subterranean termites do look alike, there are some key differences to keep in mind to differentiate the two. Despite their similar appearances, Formosan termites, upon closer inspection, have longer bodies than their subterranean counterparts. They also have shorter heads and a shorter set of pinchers.
While Formosan termites are more fierce than subterranean termites, they are mostly relegated to the southern states. Whereas subterranean termites are widespread, appearing throughout the country. Additionally, Formosan termites create cartons in which to carry water, so they do not need to return to the soil as often as their subterranean cousins. These differences between the Formosan and the subterranean termite are small, and something that would only be picked up by a keen professional eye.
The Best Way To Get Rid Of Formosan Termites In San Antonio
The very best way to get rid of Formosan termites from your San Antonio home is to work with an expert. An expert pest control team will be the doctor your house needs when dealing with a termite infestation. They will be able to thoroughly examine signs of termite damage in your home and surrounding property and diagnose exactly what type of termite you are dealing with. This information is critical for choosing the best termite treatments to rid your home of a termite infestation. A professional like EnviroGuard can ensure that your home is well taken care of. We have over 40 years of combined experience to guarantee you safe, eco-friendly, and fast results. Local, attentive, and committed, EnviroGuard is proud to serve San Antonio residents. Give us a call today for all of your pest control needs!