Drywood Termites
Appearance and Size Facts
- Drywood termite alates (winged reproductives) are usually pale brown to reddish-brown in color
- Hardened bodies with a cylindrical shape
- Four equal sized wings that extend longer than the body
- Drywood termite nymphs and soldiers have cream colored, soft bodies, but are normally hidden from sight, inside of a piece of wood or other cellulostic material
- Size: Range from 3/8 to 1/2 inch in length
Behavior and Habitat of Drywood Termites
Drywood termites are social insects that live in colonies. The colony caste system is composed of a king, a queen, soldiers, nymphs, and pseudergates (false workers). There is no true worker caste, as is found in subterranean termite colonies. Drywood termites create colonies in wood, with no connection to the ground necessary. They need very little moisture and are often found in the attic trusses, fascia boards, and soffit areas. Drywood termites obtain moisture from the water produced by the digestion of cellulose, resulting in a very hard, sand-like fecal pellet. Colonies can contain up to 5,000 termites in a mature colony (>5 years old).
Signs of Infestation of Drywood Termites
Look out for swarms as sign of a mature colony and frass (fecal pellets).
Tips for Prevention of Drywood Termites
Make sure firewood and scrap wood is stored at least 20 feet from the home and seal all cracks and crevices in a structure. Elimination of termites from structures is best left up to professional pest management companies, such as Hulett Environmental Services.
Drywood Termites Gallery
Latest Pest & Termite Control News
The Signs of Mosquito Breeding Grounds
Sep 10, 2021—Mosquitoes, Mosquitoes, Pest Control
In Florida, mosquitoes are a year-round problem, but the summertime is when Floridians struggle most with these bloodsucking pests. Mosquitoes like warm weather, so Florida is just as much a paradise for them as it is for humans. In the summer, Floridians enjoy backyard activities like cookouts,...
Read More ›
Mosquito Reduction in your Yard: Effective Outdoor Mosquito Control Methods
Aug 31, 2021—Mosquitoes, Mosquitoes
Mosquito control has many methods that together will deliver the best reduction again mosquito bites for the yard. Backyard mosquito control is a major concern for those who want to enjoy their yards and pool without the nuisance of mosquitoes buzzing in their ears and biting them. More than a...
Read More ›
Termites 101: A South Florida Homeowners Guide
Jun 07, 2021—Florida Termites
South Florida is an attractive place to call home. It's no wonder termites also love West Palm Beach, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Naples, Fort Myers, Fort Pierce and other South Florida neighborhoods. In fact, termites are predicted to damage over 50% of South Florida structures by 2040, according to...
Read More ›
