WOOD DESTROYING PESTS

Subterranean termites are extremely destructive pests. Attracted to moist conditions, they will attack any wood they come in contact with. They travel back and forth from their food source to the soil in tunnels, otherwise known as mud tubes. These mud tubes keep the termites protected from the elements outside, keeping them from drying out. They live in underground colonies with as many as two million members but can also be found in moist secluded areas above ground. 

In order to prevent termite infestations, moist environments, such as basements and crawlspaces, should be remedied and humidity reduced. Stored firewood should be kept far from the home and any wood to soil contact should also be avoided. Any mulch should also be kept away from the foundation of the home as well.

Color: Creamy white to dark brown/black

Legs:  6

Shape:  Long, narrow and oval

Size:  1/8 inch long

Antennae:  Yes

Carpenter ants get their name because they excavate wood in order to build their nests. Their excavation results in smooth tunnels inside the wood. These are large ants ranging in size from one-quarter inch for a worker ant to up to three-quarters inch for a queen.

Color: Usually red, black or a combination

Legs: 6 

Shape:  Segmented; oval

Size:  5/8" 

Antennae:  Yes