Signs Of Termites
A Quick Guide to the Signs Of Termites
If you are trying to decide whether or not to be concerned about some debris or sawdust you have come across, you may want to be armed with the knowledge of the most prominent signs of termites. Clear signs of termites from any of the subterranean species of this insect tend to show up on the exterior of the home or building in question. These termites nest and colonize underground, thus their given name, and enjoy the ultimate in protection, privacy, and safety in all matters. This includes the hunting and foraging processes, and these pesky, yet astute, carpenters will build mud tunnels up the foundation walls and sides of a building that they have targeted as a food source.
These mud tunnels are derived of dirt and an acidulous secretion that the worker termites make at will. There are some very serious and grim repercussions to be considered if you have found yourself in this case scenario, as signs of termites in this category usually mean big trouble for the owner of the invaded building. These signs of termites rarely lead experts to the direct source of the problem either, as the elaborate and lengthy tunnels within the ground have been known to begin from up to 300 feet below the surface. This may have you thinking more along the lines of excavator rather than exterminator, but don’t fret too harshly just yet. Extermination and pest control have come such a long way even over the past ten years, and all hope is not lost. Posting and baiting are still options here, as well as powerful pesticide repellents which will discourage these ground dwelling home wreckers from unwelcome visits.
The signs of termites of the wood boring type are a bit different, and will hopefully give you a good head start on a plan of action if you are paying close enough attention to the dust and dirt collections along your walls. These wood boring termites tend to be quite sloppy in the house, though meticulous to a fault when tending to their nesting site. Worker termites of these species will devote their entire lives to currying the debris, droppings, waste materials, and even the dead, out of the way of the constant progress being made within your walls. This means that there are certain exit points where this rubble is deposited, and it will show itself eventually if you’re watching.
Shed wings, sawdust, tiny fecal materials, and expired insects are all signs of termites when found in corners, under sinks and toilets, or along any wall in your building. If you intend to get to the bottom of this issue thoroughly, resist the temptation of cleaning these messes up. The better evidence left for examination by your pest control professional, the better change you have of ridding your walls of these little buggers.