When it comes to termite control, finding the problem area and identifying the exact type of pest you’re dealing with are crucial to the process. Commercial and residential pest control experts often ask clients questions about the appearance of these bugs as well as the damage they’re creating to determine whether they’re drywood termites or another species. If you’re unfamiliar with this type and how a diagnosis impacts termite treatment options, here’s a closer look.

What Are Drywood Termites?

Drywood termites are insects that don’t need soil contact to survive, as the wood they infest provides them with all the moisture they need. They create their colonies inside of wood where they can nest, lay eggs, and eat. They rarely interact with or live inside the soil surrounding the structure like subterranean termites. This can make tracking an infestation and planning termite control a bit trickier. 

What Are Their Primary Characteristics?

Generally, drywood termites are pale brown, but some may appear dark brown or tan. They vary in size from half an inch to 3/8 of an inch in length depending on whether they’re soldiers or reproductive pests. This species of termite enjoys warm, tropical climates, so they’re most frequently seen in a narrow strip of the United States from Florida to California where there’s plenty of wood and mild winters. 

What Makes Them Different From Other Species?

Unlike other termites, drywood termites will eat across wood grain and snack on even the hardest parts of this material. Their eating habits create tunnels within the wood that can negatively impact a building’s structural integrity with more speed than other types. As such, termite control is best implemented as soon as possible.

While other termites expel liquid feces, drywood termites create “kick-holes” or elimination tunnels within the wood they inhabit to remove pellets of excrement from their home. Thus, the appearance of these pellets, hollow wood sounds, and sawdust are telltale signs of drywood termites as opposed to subterranean ones. 

Are you looking for an experienced commercial and residential pest control company to assist with termite treatment? If so, GreenTec Pest Control is an invaluable resource. With over 30 years of experience serving customers throughout northern Pinellas County, Spring Hill, and West Pasco, FL, this termite control team can provide effective service using EPA-approved products and techniques. To schedule a consultation, call today at (727) 847-6733. For more information on their approach and commitment to friendly, reliable customer care, visit their website.