TERMITES
Small six legged insects that look like flying ants are seen at this time of year. While it might actually be a flying ant, another possibility is the termite. The winged stage is the reproductive stage of termites. At this time, large swarms appear and may be seen crawling on the ground or on nearby objects.
Termite swarms are more likely to occur during the day. Frequently they are spotted after spring rainstorms. A home is not necessarily infested if a swarm is seen outside, but if a swarm occurs indoors it is time to take action.
Spraying the swarm itself might make you feel as if you are doing something, but it is not going to rid you of a termite problem. The swarm is only "the tip of the iceberg." The colony stays hidden safely underground or within a wooden structure.
If your home is under a contract with a pest control company, contact the company immediately and schedule an inspection. If the home does not have a contract, call two or three companies and have them assess any termite activity and the amount of damage. Make sure they provide you with a written estimate of the proposed course of action. Read the proposals and contracts carefully.
Don't panic if termites have infested your home and the inspector can't come this week. The most common species of subterranean termites found in North Carolina take several years to cause damage. Click here for an Extension publication on wood-damaging insects, including termites.
Notify your pest control company if you are making alterations to your home. Alterations that require excavating soil around the foundation, such as the installation of French drains, may void the termite contract's guarantee in the process.
Foundation drains, which may be needed to correct a severe moisture problem, pose a potential problem for pest control companies because they must take extra precautions to avoid getting the termiticide into the drain or wherever the drain empties, such as a storm sewer. It is important that the pest control company know if drains are present before they treat the soil.
Mark Blevins , Horticulture Agent
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