Termites at a Glance
Who: Termite (Termitoidae)
What: Small eusocial insects that live in hierarchical colonies
When: Year-round.
Where: From vast deserts to dense jungle to suburban gardens – and homes.
Prevention: Get rid of wood piles or other debris and don’t plant trees or shrubs close to your home. Regular inspections are also recommended.
The Termite Swarm
Triggered by warm weather and increased rainfall, the so-called “termite swarm” occurs when large numbers of winged termites emerge to disperse and create new colonies. Unfortunately, this swarm is often the only time a home owner realizes he or she has termites – a huge mass of flying termites crawl out and head for the nearest light source (usually a window). as the window is likely sealed, most of the termites just end up dying, creating a large mass of dead termites near your windows.
The Termite
Termites are eusocial insects in the order Blattodea that live in colonies ranging from a few hundred to several million individuals. These insects are considered fragile and often avoid predators by crafting elaborate underground tunnels or shelter tubes, which cover trails. Termites have a strict caste system, which include workers, soldiers, winged reproductives and a king and queen
Although occasionally confused with winged ants, termites are typically lighter in color (pale yellow or cream-colored) with clear or grey wings. Each class of termite has its own distinct color and size, however.
Habitat
Termites are found on every continent except Antarctica, usually preferring to live in tropical or temperate zones. Around the world, termites build and maintain a variety of different nest-types, not all of which are underground. Impressive mounds of up to 30 feet high can be found in places such as African and Australia. These insects rarely pose any health risks to humans – in fact, many cultures eat termites as a tasty snack! Although termites are a potentially costly addition to your home, these animals do break down decaying materials in forests, recycling them back into the soil.
Termites in Arkansas
Arkansas is home to three major kinds of termites – subterranean, damp wood and dry wood (another species, Formosan, is common in neighboring states but the species has yet to be confirmed in Arkansas). By far the most common type of termite is the subterranean termite, which lives naturally in the soil throughout Arkansas. Damp and dry wood species are not native to the state and are less common. Damp species tend to thrive in wet decaying wood inhabit, whereas dry wood termites prefer places like attics or other dry areas.
