Florida Dampwood Termites

Appearance of Florida Dampwood Termites
The appearance of the Florida Dampwood Termite, Cryptotermes Castaneus, varies with life-stages. Soldiers are typically a very light cream color with large dark heads and powerful jaws, growing up to ¾-inch long. The most common specimen, Nymphs (juvenile termites), are pale with soft bodies and can get up to 5/8-inch in length. During the Alate, or winged phase, these termites can grow up to 1 inch. While the least common, Kings and Queens are typically brownish in color, and can grow as long as 5/8-inch.

Behavior of Florida Dampwood Termites
Florida Dampwood Termites do not live in soil, but rather prefer damp or rotting wood to establish their colonies. Unlike Florida Subterranean termites there is no true “working” caste, so the Nymphs (juveniles) carry out all of the colony tasks, including tending to the king and queen, feeding soldiers and expanding their colony. Once a colony has matured, it releases Alate (winged) termites with well developed eyes to swarm, mate and create a new colony. Often times it is hard to identify when Florida Dampwood Termites have colonized, as the fecal pellets they produce usually become wet and stick to the walls of the colony. This specimen specifically targets decaying ground wood. It is vital for Florida homeowners to control moisture prone areas of their home, as the state's climate provides an ideal environment for infestation. Florida Dampwood Termites are capable of living, feeding, and eventually weakening trees surrounding the home, dramatically increasing the risk for serious external property damage.


Treatment of Florida Dampwood Termites
The most effective way to combat Florida Dampwood Termites is with an annual inspection by SunCoast Pest Control. If you suspect that your home or property has been invaded call SunCoast immediately and we will help you keep your termite related costs to a minimum.

The US will spend approximately $5 Billion dollars this year combating termites and repairing the damage caused by them! Many insurance policies do not include coverage against termites. Approximately 600,000 houses will be attacked with an average repair cost of $3,000 per victim!

Don’t take that risk! Schedule a FREE inspection from SunCoast Pest Control and we will help you protect your home from Florida Termites!

Call us immediately before it is too late! 1-800-270-3086