Definitely, it's hard to say that termites are dormant at some point of time while active in its seasonal call. Tropically adapted termites are dynamically active for the rest of their lives, whilst in cooler climatic conditions they are less active. No known holidays for these destructive pests, instead that they are just slowing down. This means that termites choose no time for rest, thus their silence is not a sign of their absence.
Food resources is one of the factors affecting the termites visibility while considering climatic conditions that directly affects the food source and shelter. Every home shelters not only the owners but the termites itself. Climatic variation of temperature doesn't directly affect the dry-wood termites lurking inside your house. Ground termites in return, build their nests even up to 18 inches below to avoid the cooler temperature above ground.
Pests in focused
Efficiently adapted to its own way of survival, like living inside tunnels with glimpse of light or nothing at all, termite generally appeared to be translucent in color and in most species of termites they are completely blind.
Normally, warming of weather signaled the activity of many household and outdoor pests. Good weather condition prepares the area for swarmers known as the termite Alate. This typical termite has well-developed eyes, black pigmentation on its wings and a task to reproduce and mate. Both Alate of opposite sex must find a partner and settled down on a new acceptable home or location to mate until finally the female lays eggs in numbers to establish and populate its new colony.
Warmer period of spring to autumn accompanied by right rainy conditions brings you up-close to a swarming that is taking part in a peaceful horizon, then blocking your sight by the sheer density of a termite swarmer. Alates are quite fortunate compared to other termites in the colony but even the lightest blow of wind can break its wings and totally loose it.
Simple steps to do when swarming occurs
Swarming will only last for a while, thereafter, piles of dead insects are visible. When this happens don't panic and immediately apply chemical pesticides but follow these simple steps:
- Take a keen observation of the swarming insects to determine the right procedures to be done. Maybe you're thinking of termites but after all its just ants.
- You need to identify and collect samples. Swarming ants and termites are completely different but very alike and look confusing. The antennae of ants are shorter compared to termite Alates. The wings of Alates are straight, similar in size and shape.
- If you have history of pest inspection due to past termite infestation, review your contract and agreement for your warranty. Under your agreement and aligned to the existing warranty limits and coverage you can claim for a follow up work from them. Take note that your Home Insurance doesn't cover the extent of termite damage being done.
- Your collected samples of termites will be of a great use by presenting it to the new Professional Pest Control Contractor. This happens if the previous Pest Controller doesn't offer warranties. In this case, be sure to choose a licensed contractor and insure the quality of their work.
Termite's Question and Answer Review
Question: Are all termites the same?
Answer: Practically when we talk about termites, the only similar things we can see are its destructive attitude and our painstaking strategies to fight termite invasion. Studies shows that scientists named over a thousand species but only two of these worry the homeowners the most: dry-wood and subterranean termites.
Question: My house is newly constructed and therefore termite-free?
Answer: Structures made of wood are potential food source for termites, so even as early as two days from the date of building completion you can notice the termite presence. The best thing to do is to apply mechanical and chemical barriers to isolate your home from possible termite infestation.
Question: Like any other pests, what is the season for termite attacks?
Answer: No possible season for termite swarming and attacks, they are active the whole year round mostly on warmer climatic condition. Termites continue their activities as long as the condition warrants; moisture and food source.
Question: My neighbor just recently fumigated their home from termites, is it possible that termites will transfer to my house unknowingly?
Answer: The chance of infestation transfer is higher. But always remember that prevention is better than being sorry. Preventive measures include barriers of mechanical or chemical and even natural. Control the level of moisture in your house by drying and securing proper drainage, air-conditioning units must be keep dry and leaks on water piping must be repaired immediately.
Question: How will I know if termite infestation occurs in my home? What are the possible signs?
Answer: Often, termites can be detected when swarming occurs. Alates often leave their colonies to "start" a new colony of their own. These winged termites are bound to lose their wings once they start making. Moreover, the most visible sign of termite presence is the occurrence of mud tubes and tunnel-like structures on the wall surfaces, chimneys and all other house portions even your fixtures. Your weak and broken fixture made of wood maybe a sign and evidence of termites. The most noticeable is the piles of sawdust-like wastes on window jams and floors.
Question: I don’t see such things and signs, does this means that my house is free from termite infestation?
Answer: No guarantee about that. We know that termites are hard to detect because they usually spend most of their lives hidden inside your walls and roofs. For your assurance, let the professional pest control contractors check and inspect your home.
Michael Rozatoru :)
