Termite Types in Ocklawaha FL; Formosan Subterranean, Florida Dampwood Termites & More

Florida, the “Sunshine State,” is home to many termite species. Termites are well known for their destructive behavior and for causing millions of dollars worth of damage each year. This swarming season or the termites mating season, is just about over. Now they will begin looking for nesting sites to call home. This is the time homeowners will want to look for signs of termites and a possible invasion. Pest 911 would like to share more about the termite species that live in the Sunshine State, along with signs of termite damage.

Formosan Subterranean Termites

One of the top destructive wood destroying pests in North America. This termite species is known for their super colonies, comprising over a million termites. This termite species is well established throughout Florida. Even though Formosan subterranean termites nest underground, they will still invade wooden structures and like ants, bring food back to the nest. Therefore, they can invade both above or underground, which can make them difficult to detect.

Asian Subterranean Termites

Next to the Formosan subterranean termite in the amount of damage they cause to human domains. They are far less picky eaters than other termite who typically favor decaying, damp, or dried out wood. Asian subterranean termites will consume just about any type of wood they can find. The Asian Subterranean termite lives in tropical climates which is why they are found throughout Florida.

Eastern Subterranean Termites

One of the most common species found invading and destroying homes. Like other subterranean species of termite, this species nests underground and will dig tunneling systems a few inches underneath the ground making it safer to forage for food. They too will eat just about any type of wood. However, they tend to favor decaying, damp wood. The Easter Subterranean termite can be found all along the Eastern United States coastlines.

West Indian Drywood Termites

Like to infest soft and hard dry wood, which are both commonly used in home structures. Luckily, this species of termite seems to prefer feeding off furniture and cabinets rather than the internal wooden structure of homes. The West Indian Drywood termite likes tropical climates just like the Asian subterranean termite. They are also found in Florida as well as in other coastal Southeastern states.

Florida Dampwood Termites

Drawn to wood that makes contact with the soil or that’s been recently in contact with water. Wood that is frequently exposed to water from a leak often become infested with the Florida Dampwood termite. They are another tropical loving species that are found in warm humid climates. They like damp and decaying wood that is softened by moisture exposure.

Conehead Termites

Build their nest on the surface and not in wood, or underground. They are often free standing and can be found in trees, along the side of walls, rocks, and other objects that are often made of mud. Conehead termites are not sensitive to heat so they don’t build tunneling systems. They will feed only on wooden structures. However, they mostly keep outside and away from urban environments.

Signs of Termites

Some basic signs of termite infestations are mud like tubes or tunnels that can be found on the ground or along the exterior walls homes. Another common sign that your home is being eaten by termites is a hollow sound in the walls and floors. You may even find small piles of sawdust or a coffee-ground like substance on the floor or coming out of small holes in the walls and ceilings.

Termite Inspections & Treatment

If you have any signs of termites, you may have one of these local termite species infesting your home. If you need help treating your home for termites or any other pest, contact Pest 911 today!