Termite season in Oklahoma is a serious concern for homeowners, a potential cause of significant damage to their homes. Spring is the prime termite season, the time they emerge from their winter hiding places to mate and establish new colonies.
You will see termites with wings, or swarming termites, flying in large groups in search of an ideal location to establish a new colony. Homeowners must know this obvious indication of a termite infestation to avoid costly property damage. Below are the types of termites that swarm in Oklahoma.
Drywood Termites
Drywood termites are one of the three main types of termites that swarm. Unlike subterranean termites, these termites do not require contact with the soil and can infest dry wood. They typically swarm during the fall and are identifiable by their dark brown or black wings. Homeowners may notice small fecal pellets around their homes, a telltale sign of a drywood termite infestation.
Formosan Termites
Formosan termites are a particularly aggressive type of termite that can cause extensive damage to homes in a short period. They swarm in the late spring and early summer; you can identify them by their size and yellowish-brown wings.
These termites require contact with the soil and can build massive underground colonies. Signs of a Formosan termite infestation include mud tubes on foundations and walls, discarded wings near doors and windows, and hollow-sounding wood.
Subterranean Termites
The most prevalent termite in the United States is the subterranean termite. They are infamous for their destructive eating habits on cellulose materials like wood. They swarm during the spring and are distinguishable by their small size and dark wings.
Subterranean termites build mud tubes to move between their nests and food sources, which protect them from predators and dehydration.
Signs of a Termite Swarm
Homeowners should know the signs of a termite swarm to catch potential problems before they become severe. Signs of a termite swarm include:
- Piles of discarded wings around windows and doors.
- Mud tubes on walls and foundations.
- Hollow-sounding wood.
Contacting a qualified exterminator is crucial if you see any of these symptoms so they can examine the problem and recommend the best solution.
Prevention Tips
Preventing termites from infesting your home is critical to avoiding costly repairs. Homeowners can take several precautions, such as:
- Keeping the home’s base clear of firewood.
- Repairing foundational fractures and gaps around windows and doors.
- Minimizing moisture around and within the home.
Regular inspections by a professional exterminator can catch potential problems before they become severe.
Call the Best Pest Exterminator in Oklahoma
Swarming termites are a frequent occurrence in the spring. Homeowners should be aware of the warning indications of a swarm and take preventive action to safeguard their homes. Contact Arrow Exterminators, Inc. if you think your home may have a termite infestation or wish to take preventative action. Our team of expert terminators has the knowledge and experience to keep your home termite-free. Contact us today to schedule an inspection.
