Florida Formosan Termites

Appearance of Florida Formosan Termites
Florida formosan termites, Coptotermes Formosanus, are typically a yellowish pale color. Workers have pale colored bodies and can get up to 3/8-inch in length. Soldiers are yellowish-white with orange-brown oval shaped heads and can grow up to ¼-inch long. Kings and Queens vary, from a light to dark color, and can grow up to an inch in length. Alate (swarmers) are yellowish-brown with golden brown heads and can grow up to 3/5-inch long and are covered with tiny hairs.

Behavior of Florida Formosan Termites
Florida Formosan Termites are also referred to as “Super Termites” because of their reputation for being the most destructive termite on the planet. They have the largest colonies of any termite, some reaching as large as 300 feet and boasting more than 8 million members. These large nests can have multiple kings and queens constantly reproducing, with a mature queen laying as many as 1,000 eggs a day! The size of these colonies can cause substantial damage at a rapid rate. With the ability to consume entire planks of wood while leaving the surface intact, these pests can be practically impossible to detect. These termites are also unique in that they can create secondary nests with no ground connection to the original. This makes controlling them, even after having found a nest, extremely difficult. Secondary nests have been found inside walls, behind furniture and underneath cabinetry.

Florida formosan termites have also been accidentally transported through potted plants and infested trees. It is important to consider this when you are purchasing new plants. Florida formosan termites usually swarm between April and July, but their swarms have been detected year round. Apart from just wood, Florida Formosan Termites eat any cellulose-containing items; for example furniture, picture frames and even books!

Treatment of Florida Formosan Termites
The most effective way to combat Florida formosan 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