Termites have been around for millions of years. In fact, a 2015 article published by BBC.com says they are the oldest society on earth that was first created about 200 million years ago. The termite society is extremely successful due to their ability to get along with each other, allowing them adaptability when they are threatened.
Termites Know a Thing or Two About Survival
Termites are found in colonies as they are very social. They run their operation like a well-oiled machine beginning with swarmers. Their colonies are typically located in the ground or within wood. They love wood and wood by-products, such as paper, because cellulose is their food source. This makes them one of the biggest threats to our homes and properties causing billions of dollars of damage each year. To make matters even worse, most homeowners insurance won’t cover damage caused by termites. They are great at staying out of sight making them an invisible perpetrator causing damage to go unnoticed for many years. Once the damage is finally spotted, the issues are serious.
These swarmers, also known as reproductives, are the first to emerge from the nest after the last freeze of the year. Again, they are social and they emerge in large groups. Unlike their other colony members, they do leave a sign that they are around, their wings. Once the males and females locate one another, they break off their wings symbolizing that they are a couple. The new couple finds a new nest location, mate, and become king and queen of a new colony. It is not uncommon for a queen to live for 30 or more years! However, it can take three to four years before the new colony is mature enough to produce its own swarmers.
This spring keep an eye out for those discarded wings as they are usually one of your only early signs of a termite infestation. If you do see signs of termites or just want to reassure yourself that you don’t have them, it is important to contact Terminator Termite and Pest Control, 479.783.6200, to properly identify and successfully treat your home.