Types of Termites in Yard

Three types of termites are commonly found in the yard – subterranean termites, dampwood termites, and drywood termites. These termites don’t just establish colonies in your yard, but they can also enter your home if they are left unchecked. Eden discusses the different types of termites, the signs of termite infestation, and the tips to control them in this article.

1. Subterranean termites 

The subterranean termite is the most common type of termite. These cream-colored termites are found in most parts of the United States. Subterranean termites live in the soil and build their nests underground. The following attributes will perfectly define the subterranean termites.

• The length of subterranean termites is 1/4-inch or less.
• Subterranean termites prefer the warm southern states.
• Even though these termites prefer warmer southern states, they need moist conditions to survive, so they love to live in your lawn’s soil rather than the wood in your house. 
• Subterranean termites typically live up to 15 to 17 years. Some of them might live up to 30 years. 
• One might easily recognize subterranean termite damage through the fecal-soil mixture present in the tunnels to ensure humidity. This is because the termites would dry out and die without this soil mixture. 

2. Dampwood termites

Dampwood termites do not build mud tunnels. Unlike subterranean termites, they use their fecal matter to plug holes and keep them from drying out. The dampwood termite is found in moist, wooded areas. They usually live in trees or logs that are rotting or have high moisture content. The attributes of dampwood termites are given below. 

• The king and queen of dampwood termites can measure between 1/2 to 5/8 inches long.
• The other termites or soldiers can grow up to 3/4 inches long.
• The dampwood termites are usually light or dark brown in color, but a few of them also have a reddish shade.
• They are pretty great at hiding themselves and cause significant damage till they are discovered.

3. Drywood termites

The drywood termite is found in dry, wooded areas. Drywood termites do not live in the soil and do not build mud tunnels. They are able to tunnel through wood and create their nests inside of it. The attributes of drywood termites are given below. 

• Drywood termites are usually larger than subterranean species of termites. Their size ranges from 1/4 inch to 3/8 inch. 
• They are reddish-brown and come with two sets of wings. 
• Drywood termites do not produce liquid feces. Instead, they produce dry fecal pellets that are accumulated outside the tunnel. 
• The drywood termite queens typically live 10-12 years. In general, the other, or worker termites only live up to two years. 

What are the signs of termites in your yard?

The signs of termite infestation in your yard are given below. 

• Damaged wood or wood chips on the mulch bed.
• Fecal pellets or droppings in your garden.
• Lots of discarded wings near your windows and doors.
• Mud tunnels around your house or wood amenities on the lawn.

If you see any of these signs, it’s essential to contact a professional for further inspection.

How to Control Termites in the Yard

If you’re dealing with a termite problem, you’re not alone. These pesky pests are a common problem for homeowners, and they can be challenging to get rid of. However, you can do a few things to get rid of termites for good.

• Get rid of anything in your yard that can attract termites: If termites are an existing problem, then discard the items that have been damaged or infested by the termites before you start with the extermination process.
• Remove mulch: If you suspect that your mulch bed has termites, consider removing it as well.
• Inspect the moisture content of your yard and fix it as soon as possible: Instead of jumping into the application of pesticides, check for leaky pipes and damp walls, piping or plumbing areas to get the moisture issue rectified.
• Identify where the termites are coming from: If you have an existing problem, chances are they’re coming from the outside. Once you know where they’re coming from, you can take steps to block their access.
• Inspect the soil: Excavate the soil where you suspect or discover the termites. This process will help you reach the termites’ underground nest or colony.
• Use a termiticide: Using a termiticide can help you kill termites on contact. 

• Prevent the termites from coming back: This can be done by making sure there is no food source for them near your home. You may also want to consider using chemical barriers, such as termite granules, around your property to keep them away for good.

Which types of termites are the most destructive?

The most destructive kind of termite is the subterranean termite. They are dangerous since they constantly eat while having colonies with over 2 million members. These termites can also build colonies aboveground if there is moist, rotting wood in your yard. Subterranean termites are mostly found in warmer southern states, between Florida and Southern California.

In conclusion, there are three types of termites – subterranean termites, dampwood termites, and drywood termites and some of the signs of termite infestation are mud tunnels and damaged wood. If you are facing termite infestation issues in your yard, Eden recommends consulting a professional for proper control and removal.