Are those termites?

I’ve only seen half dozen dampwood termite infestations in Delta over the last couple years. These termite colonies where found in a decaying stumps and where not a threat to the home owners. The presence of these dampwood termites usually indicates an ongoing moisture problem, so unless the foundation of your home is wet these termites are usually found in old rotting wood. Termite colonies contain three main social castes: workers, soldiers, and reproductives. Termite colonies must live in warm and humid environments. They are most active in temperatures from 24° to 35° Celsius. Termites derive nutrients primarily from cellulose. These insects consume live or dead wood, twigs, roots, grass, paper, cardboard and other plant materials. The winged primary reproductives swarm once the weather permits and leave the original colony to establish new ones. The formation of a new, thriving colony can take as long as a dozen years. To stop the development of a termite colony: make sure wood or firewood is away from your foundation and off the soil, repair any drainage or humidity issues under your house.

http://www.delta-optimist.com/opinion/blogs/blog-are-those-termites-1.2255476

 

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