What Termites are in Suffolk County & Nassau County?
Termites are not just an inconvenience; they present a serious risk to homes and buildings in Suffolk and Nassau Counties. Within months, they can cause significant damage before being detected. To safeguard your property, it’s crucial to recognize the types of termites in our area and their telltale signs. The team at Suburban Exterminating is here to provide the expert insight you need.
Types of Termites in Suffolk County & Nassau County
You may be surprised to learn that despite the over 2,000 species of termites around the world, infestations in Suffolk and Nassau Counties are typically caused by just two types: Eastern Subterranean Termites and Formosan Termites. Although they share similar destructive traits, there are a few distinguishing characteristics.
Eastern Subterranean Termites
Typically living in underground colonies, Eastern subterranean termites build mud tubes that allow them to reach food and moisture above ground. These termites are small and range in color from creamy white to dark brown, with soldiers having large, rectangular heads and strong mandibles.
Formosan Termites
Similar to Eastern subterranean termites, Formosan termites live in underground colonies but are far more aggressive and capable of forming secondary nests above ground when moisture is abundant. Larger in size, workers are yellowish-brown with an oval head and a noticeable fontanelle. Known as “super termites,” they are capable of causing extensive damage quickly due to their large colonies and aggressive foraging patterns.
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When Are Termites Most Active?
In Suffolk County & Nassau County, termites are a year-round issue due to the local climate, but they are most noticeable in the spring when reproductive alates leave the colony to find a mate. These termites swarm during warm, humid weather, which offers ideal conditions to protect their delicate bodies while they are exposed. Since termites generally stay within the nest except for swarming, this is the prime time of year to spot them.
Do Termites Die In The Winter?
Unlike many pests that become dormant or vanish during colder months, termites remain active throughout the year, especially when winter is mild. While their activity may decrease slightly during cooler weather, they don’t die off or go dormant in our area, as they might in regions with more temperate climates. However, they may change their behaviors when temperatures drop by:
- Burrowing: During colder months, termites will burrow deeper into the soil or wood in an effort to protect themselves from the cold. The deeper they go, the more stable the temperature becomes, allowing them to continue their activity in a warmer environment.
- Egg Laying: As temperatures drop, termite colonies often reduce their egg-laying activity. Cooler weather slows down their reproductive processes, causing the queen to delay or decrease egg production.
- Building: Even during colder months, termites continue to build and maintain their mud tubes to stay warm. These tubes, which are made of soil, saliva, and feces, serve as a protective shelter from the elements and predators while providing insulation against the cold.
How to Tell If You Have Termites
Termites are known as “silent destroyers” due to their ability to inflict significant damage before being noticed. The earlier you detect an infestation, the simpler it is to address. Even during the winter months, it’s essential to stay alert for the following termite signs:
- Mud Tubes: Termites create mud tubes made from a mixture of soil and their droppings to travel from their colony to food sources. These tubes, typically found along walls, foundations, or other surfaces, serve as protected pathways leading from the ground to wooden structures.
- Discarded Wings: After reproductive termites swarm to mate, they shed their wings. The presence of discarded wings around windows, doorways, or near light sources is a clear indicator that a termite swarm has occurred and could suggest an active infestation nearby.
- Hollowed Wood: Termites consume wood from the inside, leaving the exterior intact but often weak. When tapping on wood results in a hollow sound or the wood feels soft and compromised, it may be a sign that termites have caused significant internal damage.
- Blistering or Bubbling Paint: The tunneling action of termites through walls can cause paint on the surface to bubble or blister. This is usually a result of moisture from their activity beneath the surface, which can lead to paint and surface damage.
What Type of Termite Do I Have?
Since termites are rarely seen unless a swarm is present, identifying the exact species can be challenging. A professional termite control company can determine the species and provide the best treatment options. If you suspect a termite infestation, it’s important to act quickly before the damage worsens. Our experienced team is ready to help identify and eliminate termites, keeping your home safe and pest-free.
Get in touch with Suburban Exterminating today for expert termite removal services.