Worldwide, there are more than 2,000 species of termites – nearly 50 of which can be found here in the United States, and among them, four of which are the most common. Combined, these four – the Drywood Termite, Dampwood Termite, Formosan Subterranean Termite and Eastern Subterranean Termite – are responsible for the bulk of termite damage in the U.S., and are the species usually targeted by pest control specialists around the country. Let’s take a quick look at the eastern subterranean termite, the variety most common to the Ohio and Northern Kentucky region.
As the most common and widely distributed termite in the U.S., eastern subterranean termites can be found in nearly all of the eastern states, and as far west as Utah, north into Canada and throughout the southern tier. These voracious feeders are particularly damaging to structural lumber in homes and other edifices. Their handiwork often goes undetected, as they destroy the interior of boards and beams, often leaving the outside of the board intact. Thus, from the outside, the wood looks structurally sound, but just beneath the surface, termites have weakened the wood to the point of failure.
These termites usually enter buildings and houses through tiny cracks in tile or flooring. They prefer moist, warm conditions, with ideal temperatures between 75-95°F. If you see evidence of eastern subterranean termites in your home – particularly if you find evidence of a colony – it is important that you do not disturb them. Termites, once detected, will quickly abandon the colony and move to another location, which may be difficult to detect until there is obvious damage. The easiest way to distinguish termites from other pests (such as ants) is by their broad waist and straight antennae. If swarming (another sign of possible infestation), they are distinguishable from swarming ants by their wings – termite wings are equal in length and twice as long as its body; ant wings are unequal in length and no longer than its body. You may also find mud tubes on basement walls, foundation, steps, posts or trim. Termite-damaged wood will appear hollowed out or rotten and crumbling if prodded. Remember, if you find any termites – or evidence of them – leave the area alone and call Scherzinger Pest Control immediately.
Scherzinger Termite and Pest Control is a trusted pest control company in the Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky areas, including Dayton, OH, and now Columbus, OH. We’ve been pioneers, engineering new standards for ways of eliminating and controlling bugs and pests. Contact us by phone at 1-877-748-9888 or via web inquiry, Facebook or Twitter.