Florida Subterranean Termites

Appearance of Florida Subterranean Termites
Florida subterranean termites, Reticulitermes Flavipes, usually are a transparent yellowish color. Workers have pale colored bodies and can get up to 3/8-inch in length. Soldiers are light colored with dark brown heads and strong jaws. They can get up to 3/8-inch long. Kings and Queens vary from light to dark color and can grow up to an inch in length. The alate (winged) have two sets of long wings and can get as long as ¾-inch.

Behavior of Florida Subterranean Termites
Florida subterranean termites are the most commonly encountered termites in Florida. They build large colonies with intricate tunnel systems and have as many as a million members. Although Florida subterranean termites are more likely to swarm during the spring months, small swarms occur year round. They are most attracted to warmer climates. Their colonies are typically found in soil as they require constant contact with a moisture source. They build mud “tubes” to reach food sources above ground. Florida subterranean termites can build tubes up to 60 feet in length. They fill the holes they create with soil, in order to maintain a high level of moisture throughout the colony. They can even find cracks in concrete and brick in order to reach a food source! Florida Subterranean termites do not expel fecal matter and they leave the exterior of wood structures they are destroying intact. Therefore, detecting an infestation can be very difficult. It is important to look for termite tubes around the perimeter of your home. In a well established colony they can have both primary and secondary reproductives allowing the colony membership to grow very rapidly. They will eat almost anything cellulose-based including furniture, picture frames and even books!


Treatment of Florida Subterranean Termites
The most effective way to combat Florida subterranean 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