Termites Flyin’
Tuesday, September 14th, 2010This is the time of year that termites enter their flying stage. Ants have a flying stage too, but those red ant like winged creatures you’re now seeing are Pacific damp wood termites. Note that their bodies are much flatter than an ant’s body.
If you live near woods you’re probably seeing them now. The best time to see them is earlier in the day and around dinner time. Paddy our puppy and I have been seeing them on our 2 times a day walks and sure enough, we’ve been getting calls about them at the Extension Office.
For more information on termites see the following link for a WSU Extension Publication on how to check your home for termite damage and also how to identify termites on your property. The second link has very good color images of termites in all stages of their development.
http://cru.cahe.wsu.edu/CEPublications/eb0787/eb0787.pdf
http://bugguide.net/node/view/31161
Seeing these flying insects does not mean your home is full of termites, it’s just an annual occurrence. Think of it as being akin to bird migration or bees swarming. The termites are looking for a new place to nest. Hopefully only out in the wilds and not in our homes.
Check around the foundation of your home and under the house for any cracks, moisture or signs where termites could congregate. This is a good time of year to caulk around windows and seams and to check weather stripping and vent openings.
If you have any questions or concerns about termites please give us a call at the WSU Kitsap Extension Office 360-337-7158 for the Master Gardener on Duty. Or send an email to ptillery@co.kitsap.wa.us
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