Most homeowners rarely see signs of termites, unless they swarm. However, active termite infestations can be discovered with the help of a few key warning signs. A trained pest professional can correctly identify evidence of termite infestations and develop a treatment plan during an annual inspection.
A qualified termite inspector will look for:
- mud tubes, which indicate the presence of subterranean termites.
- termite frass (droppings), which indicate the presence of drywood or dampwood termites.
- kick out holes, which are exits drywood and dampwood termites use to push frass out of the nest.
- places where paint is bubbling and peeling due to moisture from a termite nest.
- excessive moisture and problem areas that could attract termites.
Termite Swarms
A large number of flying insects often is the most visible clue to a termite swarm. However, discarded wings also are evidence of termite swarms.
Some species of termites, namely drywood species, produce relatively few swarmers. If you are not home or directly near the location of the swarm, you may not see it.
View Swarm Pictures.
Since swarmers cannot fly very far and lose their wings very quickly after they land, they may try to start their new colony at another location in or around your home. If you discover several insect wings of the same size, you should contact a professional to identify the wings as termite wings and inspect your home for additional evidence of termite infestation.