Rising temperatures and more rainfall in the spring have an impact on eastern subterranean termite behavior. Termite colonies might start mating as a result of this weather, which is a clear sign of a possible infestation. During the day, winged reproductive termites known as alates emerge from below, depart from their colony, and swarm the surrounding region in search of mates from another colony. The alates get their wings and fly underground to start a new colony after mating. There may be an infestation in or near your home if winged termites or only wings have been found inside.
Extreme weather may cause or worsen the ideal conditions for termites to infest a building. If you spot any increased population of pests after rainfall, contact saelapest.com.
Those flying bugs after rain could be termites
The eastern subterranean termite is one of the most damaging flying insects that are attracted to moisture in the Midwest. Despite being the only termite species in the Midwest, this one has the ability to do an enormous amount of damage. The colonies of these insects depend on an ongoing supply of moisture to survive, and they devour wood and other cellulose-based materials. They mostly look for damp wood or other cellulose-based foods to eat while nesting below in moist soil.
Over time, these termites may do an immense amount of harm despite their small size. However, only 31% of homeowners take measures to keep pests out of their houses. In around a year, a colony of 60,000 termites may devour a two-foot-long, two-by-four piece of wood, gradually destroying structures in a manner that is sometimes overlooked until it is too late.
Common misunderstandings regarding Eastern Subterranean Termites:
1. We are not concerned about termites because my house is new.
Eastern subterranean termites will attack any untreated wood, no matter how old. Both older and newly constructed buildings may experience moisture issues, which can create an environment that is favourable to termite activity. The importance of routine expert termite inspections for their house is recognized by no more than 29% of homeowners.
2. There are not many termites in the area where we live.
The most common type of termite in the US is the eastern subterranean termite, which is the only kind found in the Midwest. This species should not be ignored because it has the ability to cause significant structural damage.
3. When we bought the property, a termite check was performed, and the results were acceptable.
Termites are always building new colonies and searching for new food sources. A structure may still be at risk of termite infestation even if it had a prior termite inspection. 49% of homeowners are unaware of the damage that termites may do to homes and buildings. It is essential to have termite inspections done on your residence or place of business at least once a year.
How to Stay Away from Moisture-Loving Pests During the Year’s Rainiest Season
The best defense against flying insects like termites that are attracted to moisture is considered to be a dry, well-maintained structure. The following suggestions may help you prevent moist situations in your house:
- Getting rid of any standing water on your land
- Buying a dehumidifier for a structure’s interior
- Sealing a structure’s exterior and interior cracks and openings
- Stay clear of or handle wood that comes into direct contact with soil.
- Regularly inspecting buildings and fixing any rotting or damaged wood
- Finding and fixing leaks
- Inspecting a building’s exterior and interior for signs of water damage during severe weather
Termites and other severe moisture pest infestations should not be handled on your own. An expert should be consulted if any of the above-mentioned signs of pest activity are detected. Just 27% of homeowners report that they have had a termite inspection done by a professional. DIY pest control solutions are less likely to be effective and will not deal with the underlying moisture problems that initially attracted the pests.
