Termites can cause severe damage to homes, buildings, as well as wooden furniture. People usually only see termites indoors after the attack has been severe enough. Though you may also find termites around dead tree stump, rotting wood, or other debris. To identify termites, carefully examine any one you find. Traits such as wings and antennae can help you identify termites. You should also look for signs of termite infestation such as tunnels of mud and dirt. If your house is attacked by termites, contact an exterminator for help.
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Part 1 of 3: Checking Physical Traits
Step 1. If possible, catch any insects you suspect are termites
Termites look similar to ants and should be carefully examined to see the difference. If possible, catch insects you suspect are termites for further inspection under a magnifying glass or similar device. You can catch termites by gently pinching them between your thumb and forefinger.
- Place the termites in some sort of glass jar to examine them further.
- Dead termites can also be examined, but it will be easier to observe those that are still alive. Handle the insect carefully so as not to kill it.
Step 2. Pay attention to the wings and antennae
Termites have distinctive wings and antennae that are different from ants. One way to tell the difference between termites and ants is to carefully examine the wings and antennae of the insect you catch.
- Termites have four wings. Its four wings are as big as its body, while the wings of ants are of different sizes.
- Termites have a pair of antennae that are straight. Meanwhile, the ant's antennae are slightly bent.
Step 3. Count the legs
If you can see close enough to count the legs, do it. Termites have six legs. His legs are short and look fat.
Step 4. Know the different types of termites
There are three types of termites: winged termites, worker termites, and soldier termites. If you look at different types of insects around your house, you may see several different types of termites.
- The winged termites are brown or black. Here are the termites you might see and check for.
- Worker termites do not have wings, but do have six legs and the same pair of antennae. It is white in color and often appears transparent.
- Warrior termites have no wings and are brown in color. This type of termite has pincers near its head, antennae, and six legs.
Step 5. Pay attention to the size
You don't necessarily have to measure termites. After all, it might be difficult to do so. However, try to remember the rough size. Termites generally measure almost one centimeter.
Part 2 of 3: Observing the Signs of Attack
Step 1. Watch for changes in your home
Termites can cause damage to homes. So, if there is a termite attack, you may find signs of damage. The wood of your house may sound empty when tapped. You may also see drooping floors and ceilings. Weathered wood and peeling paint can also be signs of termite infestation.
Step 2. Listen for the sound of termites
You can often hear a termite attack before you even see it. Soldier termites occasionally bang their heads into the interior of the walls. If you hear a knocking sound from inside the wall, it could be a sign of a termite attack.
Step 3. Watch out for termite droppings
Termite droppings are another sign that your home is under attack. Termite droppings look like tiny pellets and may appear near walls or other termite gathering places. If you see pellets piling up in the house, this is a sign of an attack.
Step 4. Notice the mud tunnel in the wall
Termites often build tunnels of mud and dirt on walls. This tunnel protects the termites from predators. Strange mud tunnels stuck to walls, often outdoors, are a sign of termites. The shape is like clay and dark brown in color.
Termites often make mud tunnels overnight, so you may see them emerge unexpectedly in the morning
Part 3 of 3: Overcoming Termite Attacks
Step 1. Choose a pest control company carefully
Termite infestations can cause serious damage to your home. So, it should be handled by a professional immediately. Choose a reputable pest control company as soon as you suspect termites.
- Make sure the company you choose has a permit from the authorities, such as the Ministry of Agriculture. Companies that are registered as members of the Association of Pest Control Companies are also a plus.
- Contact two or three companies for cost estimates. Dealing with termites can be expensive. So make sure you get the best deals.
- Termites can cause damage, but slowly. It doesn't matter if it takes you some time to choose a trusted pest control company. If a company scares you into signing a deal, it may not be a good company.
Step 2. Discuss treatment options with a professional
Termites are usually treated with sprays and pesticides. Even though the government has given permission to use pesticides that are safe for health, if you are not comfortable with the ingredients, just use a spray. Discuss your options with a pest control company representative carefully to decide which treatment option is right for you.
In addition to choosing between traps and sprays, you should also talk about areas of the house that need to be tackled. Sometimes, termite infestations can be treated with treatment at several points or around your home. Sometimes your entire home needs to be taken care of
Step 3. Follow the instructions for handling the house
When using chemicals, your pest control company will provide specific instructions. You may need to leave the house for a while, or get rid of your pets for a while. You may need to consult a doctor if you have health problems that could be exacerbated by exposure to these chemicals.
Step 4. Don't try to deal with termite infestation alone
Dealing with termite attacks can be tricky and requires special skills. It's best not to try to get rid of termites yourself under any circumstances. Contact a professional exterminator to find out the appropriate treatment options.
