Termites mean business. They fulfill a critical role in helping our ecosystems function by processing cellulose fromdecomposing plant matter to return the nutrients to the soil. The problem is that they’re not too concerned about where that cellulose originates. Not sure what cellulose is? That’s a fancy way of saying wood. Think trees, brush or even your house’s foundation! It doesn’t stop there; they’ll even damage your furniture if you don’t take the right precautions. Having the right termite control for your Cary home is an important step in protecting your home from these annoying pests! In this article, we’ll explore the answers to a few of your most common termite questions.
Why do termites swarm?
Within termite colonies, there are three different classes: workers, soldiers, and reproductive termites. This last group does exactly what they sound like: make more termites! This group has large wings that allow them to leave the colony when it becomes both overpopulated and when the weather is right (usually during the Spring). This mass departure from the colony is called swarming.
If you see swarming termites around your home, that’s an almost sure sign that your home is at risk of damage if left unprotected. You might also find insect remains like wings on your windowsills. This could mean that they’ve already burrowed into your home.
Termites swarm for a variety of reasons. Firstly, they swarm naturally as a way to locate new food sources and to begin creating new nests. Second, termites swarm because of a lack of moisture in their current home. Most subterranean termites typically swarm in the spring, during the day.
Are termites good for the environment?
As previously mentioned, termites have made a lifestyle out of chewing through wood. It’s their main source of nutrition, and it can come from a variety of sources. Why do they do this? Simple. Termites are decomposers. Their main function in our ecosystem is to eat dead wood like fallen trees, brush and leaves. They break down this natural plant matter so the nutrients can be reabsorbed into the soil. The problem with termites is that they don’t care if they’re eating dead trees or the exterior walls of your home.
How can I identify termites?
Termites often resemble winged ants, and although they’re both pests, it’s important to know the difference. Cary homeowners should be looking out for termites that are brown or milky white in color. They’re about the same size as ants but have thick, straight bodies while ants have pinched waists. Pay attention to the antennae too. Termites have straight antennae while ant antennae are V-shaped. Worker termites have large heads with big, brown jaws.
Swarmers have wings, but worker and soldier termites, found inside of colonies, are wingless.
Why should I be concerned about termites?
Termites are important decomposers in our environment, and they’re just as likely to eat away at your home as they are to eat natural plant matter.
If your property doesn’t have the right defenses in place, you’re at risk for a termite infestation that could cost thousands of dollars. You can prevent these unexpected costs by proactively managing your efforts by first starting with a free Cary termite inspection!
When it comes to pest prevention, it’s important to have the right long-term safeguards in place to prevent long term damage. At Cats Eye King International Inc, our highly trained technicians use products that are both environmentally responsible and designed to protect your family. Learn more about our C.E.K termite control solutions or contact us for your free inspection!