A Guide to Different Types of Termite Species

Group of termites eating wood

There ae about 45 different kinds of species of termites found in the U.S., each of which falls into one of the three main termite types: subterranean, drywood, and dampwood. Each species has a unique behavior and makeup which determines which part of the country they live in, where they build their nests and their likelihood to damage your home. If you are curious about the different types of termite species and their behaviors, check out this guide from Healthy Home Termite & Pest Control – the pest control experts in Atlanta, GA.

Subterranean Termites

Subterranean termites live in the soil below ground. These termites build the largest nests of any insect in the United States. In order to survive, subterranean termites will build mud tubes to food sources like trees, fence posts, and even your home. Subterranean termites are found in every US state, except Alaska, and are known to cause the majority of termite damage in this country.

Here in Georgia, Formosan termites are the most common type of subterranean termites. These are one of the most destructive termite species in the United States and are a major concern for Johns Creek, Marietta, and Acworth homeowners. Formosan termite swarms at night during the late spring in Georgia. They breed fast and can destroy wood structures quickly than other native subterranean species.

Drywood Termites

Drywood termites thrive in dry wood environments like dead trees or hardwood floors. Drywood termites do not require contact with soil like subterranean termites. Some drywood termite species cause significant damage to homes, although drywood termite colonies tend to be smaller than subterranean termite colonies. As a result, they typically cause damage at a slower rate than subterranean termites.

Those in Acworth and Marietta will want to look out specifically for southeastern drywood termites. These termites eat across the grain of the wood rather than eating with the grain of the wood. Southeastern drywood termites swarm at night, usually in the spring. You may notice their fecal pellets around your home which are oval in shape and have six concave sides. If you notice fecal pellets around your home, call a pest control expert.

Dampwood Termites

Dampwood termites are known to live in high moisture environments. Most dampwood termites do not require contact with the soil. Dampwood termites are rarely found in homes, since there is typically not enough moisture for these species to thrive.

Get in touch with Healthy Home Termite & Pest Control for Termite Control in Georgia

Homeowners in Johns Creek, Marietta and Acworth need to be vigilant when it comes to spotting the signs of a subterranean or drywood termite near their home. If you suspect you have a termite infestation in your home, contact the experts at Healthy Home Termite & Pest Control. We will put a comprehensive plan in place to eliminate termites from your property and prevent future infestations. For years, we’ve helped homeowners in Johns Creek, Marietta, and Acworth protect their largest investment.

Get in touch with us today to learn more about our termite control services in Georgia by filling out our online contact form.