What do Termites Look Like in Springfield, Illinois?

While termites are feared nationwide, many people don’t know that not all termites are the same. These insects vary depending on the region. Here in Springfield, there is only one type of termite commonly found: the Eastern Subterranean Termite. So, what do these termites look like?

Eastern Subterranean Termites

Eastern subterranean termites are found throughout the state of Illinois and are one of the most common termite species in the area. In Illinois, these termites typically swarm in the spring and summer months when they are searching for new food sources and nesting sites. Homeowners in the state should be vigilant for signs of termite activity, such as mud tubes or piles of sawdust, and should consider scheduling regular termite inspections to prevent infestations from causing expensive damage to their properties.

What do Eastern Subterranean Termites Look Like? 

The Eastern subterranean termite is a small, pale-colored insect that often gets mistaken for a white ant. Other identifying qualities of these bugs include:

• Small, plump bodies that are divided into three main parts: the head, thorax, and abdomen.
• Straight antennae and thick waists.
• Rounded heads on the worker termites and more elongated heads on the soldiers.
• Brownish-gray wings that are used for swarming.

How Big Are Eastern Subterranean Termites?

Eastern subterranean termites are typically small insects, ranging in size from 1/4 to 3/8 of an inch (6.35 to 9.52 millimeters) in length. The workers are usually smaller than the soldiers and reproductive termites. 

Termites with Wings

Not all termites have wings, but the eastern subterranean termites here in Springfield do! These termites use wings for swarming, but then they break off soon after. Other termites with wings include the drywood termite and the formosan termite.

Do Termites Fly?

Termites do fly when they are in swarming season, but they do not fly in the sense that bees or flies do. Termite swarming is when a colony leaves its nest to find a home- which could be your home! Once they have finished swarming, they shed their wings. Eastern subterranean termites swarm in the spring or summer, so this is a great time to look into professional termite treatment in Springfield!

Preventing Termites

There are several steps you can take to help prevent termites from infesting your home:

• Eliminate moisture: Termites need moisture to survive, so it's important to fix any leaks or standing water around your home.
• Keep wood away from your foundation: Avoid storing firewood or other wooden materials near your home, as these can provide an attractive food source for termites.
• Monitor landscaping: Keep shrubs and trees trimmed and away from your home's exterior, as these can provide a bridge for termites to reach your house.
• Seal cracks and crevices: Seal any gaps or cracks in your home's foundation or exterior walls to prevent termites from entering.

Call Garella for Springfield Termite Control

Unfortunately, you can do everything in your power to prevent them and still end up with a termite problem. Termites are tricky insects to prevent and eliminate on your own. Luckily, you don’t have to! Garella Pest Services has been serving the Springfield community since 1945. If you need Springfield termite control, look no further. Call us today for a free quote and to learn more about our services.