Pest Control Service
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A Florida Spring isn’t complete without those nasty termite swarms, and for many homeowners their troubles don’t stop at simply swatting at those bothersome bugs flying around our heads. If a termite swarm discovers a way to breach your home or business, it can result in costly and damaging termite infestations.
The downside of living in a tropical paradise is that is attracts a variety of termite types.
The many types of subterranean termites found in Florida
Formosan Subterranean Termite
Florida is home to a variety of invasive species, and the Formosan subterranean termite is one of the worst. Originating in China, these aggressive pests made their way to Florida where their endless appetite for destruction and huge colonies can consume wood at an alarming rate. This species has been nicknamed the Super Termite, which should tell you how seriously you need to take a Formosan subterranean termite infestation.
Asian Subterranean Termite
This species also originates in Asia and can be just as destructive. Unfortunately for those of us that live in Southwest Florida, the Asian subterranean termite is mostly found in tropical locations. Which means Naples, Bonita Springs, Marco Island and Fort Myers have two destructive termites on our hands.
Well, at least it can’t get any worse, right
In a twist straight out of a monster movie, the two most destructive termite species have begin mating. These new termites are out to destroy. From the article in the Sun Sentinel:
’This is worrisome, as the combination of genes between the two species results in highly vigorous hybridized colonies that can develop twice as fast as the two parental species,” said Thomas Chouvenc, research assistant in UF’s Subterranean Termite laboratory in Davie. “The establishment of hybrid termite populations is expected to result in dramatically increased damage to structures in the near future.’
Southwest Florida Subterranean Termite Season is here! Know the signs of termite infestation to help avoid a costly, damaging infestation!
Florida Dampwood Termite
As the name may have clued you in, the Florida dampwood termite is found only in Florida within the US. As the name also suggests, dampwood termites require a high humidity as well as free water sources. If your structures are located near damp areas, exposed to sprinklers or rainfall they are susceptible to a dampwood termite infestation.
Florida Dampwood Termites and Hurricane Irma
Due to the roof and siding damage caused by Hurricane Irma we have seen an increase in dampwood termite infestation. If your home experienced hurricane damage, we recommend a pest control inspection.
Eastern Subterranean Termite
This is the most common termite found here in Florida and all along the east coast of the United States. They feed on the cellulose within wood structures and paper.
West Indian Drywood Termite
Here in Florida, April through June is swarming season for the West Indian Drywood Termite, which can be found within the wood structure of your home, but also furniture and home décor made of wood components. This type of termite spends its lifespan within the wood, making it easy to transport into your home or business without detection.
I think I have a termite infestation! What should I do?
A termite infestation is serious. The longer you leave your suspicions to smolder, the more damage termites are doing. Contact a pest control expert as soon as possible. PestMax® has provided consistent pest control services to Naples, Fort Myers, Bonita Springs, Marco Island and the surrounding areas for 20 years. We are fully licensed to fumigate and tent your home for the proper removal of termites. The technicians at PestMax® are fully certified to carry out this service and leave your home free and clear of insect infestations.
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