Termite Identification - Recognizing an Infestation

If you suspect that you have pests, termite identification is crucial. This is because termite problems are some of the most difficult concerns to deal with.

Being able to positively identify that you do have a problem with them will help you plan the right treatment solution.

Appearance

Pest control methods often rely on visually identifying the pests. The presence of termites however may not always be easy to determine. This is because they usually stay out of sight. Many homeowners however eventually catch sight of them if they intentionally look for them.

Most termites that will be visible are workers. These have bodies that are not segmented and are creamy white in color. They may resemble moving grains of rice. Soldier termites have the same appearance but are bigger. Aside from workers, winged colony members called swarmers may also be visible. Subterranean swarmers have dark, solid bodies and equal sized wings.

Visual Clues

It’s also possible to identify termites through clues they leave behind. Even if they are not always visible to the naked eye, they may leave trails of demolished wood. These often come in the form of tiny grains similar to sawdust. Generally though, these particles of wood are more granulated than real sawdust.

Mud tunnels are also an important termite identification clue. Subterranean termites which are the more common species found in homes often build tunnels made of wood and their own secretions. These tunnels serve as a source of moisture and protection as they travel from their colony to food sources. Tunnels may run from wood sections of a house to the ground or soil.

Damage to Property

Termites can also be identified based on the damage they leave behind. Paint may bubble over the parts they’ve hollowed out. You can also try tapping over sections of wood paneling. Those that sound hollow or give in when prodded can be indications of termite activity. If termites are not immediately eliminated, wood sections may even show ragged holes.

Termite identification isn’t as hard as it seems. Even so, it’s normal to make the wrong guesses based on incorrect information. Before you decide to do anything, make sure you know exactly how to pinpoint termites.

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