Dry Wood: Dry wood termites tend to have smaller colonies and grow at a much slower rate than others. They range in size as well as color but are typically about ½” inch long and yellowish brown in color. What sets them apart from other termites is that they do not need constant contact with the ground or soil and do not build tubes. They eat wood in the cross cut matter so that more of the wood is damaged. It is typically their feces that cause them to be found.
Formosan: The Formosan termite is considered one of the most aggressive and economically devastating termites in the country, as well as the Bryan, TX and College Station, TX area. Due to their larger colony size, they can attack more wood at a faster rate. They also grow quickly, and it is not uncommon to find a colony of over 1 million! They will make both above and underground tunnels in order to reach the most food possible. They range in color from pale yellow to brown yellow and also have wings.
Subterranean: Subterranean termites are about 3/8” inches in length and light colored with clear wings. They will eat wood by following the grain and tend to eat only the soft spring wood. They live mostly underground or in secluded areas with a lot of moisture, such as your walls. They build extensive tunnel systems to give them access to plenty of food. Our termite control experts can identify their hiding places and get rid of them for good.
Swarming Subterranean: Winged Formosan termite reproductives or “swarmers” are yellowish-brown and 12-15 mm (0.5-0.6 inch) in length. They swarm at night in late May and early June and are attracted to lights. They have a dense covering of hair on their transparent wings. There are some drywood termites that also have a honey-brown color and are about the same size as Formosan termites. Like the Formosan termites they swarm at night and are attracted to artificial lights. The two species can, however, be distinguished by identifying features such as veins in the wings and characteristics of the head.