Subterranean termite facts & identification

Subterranean termites are a widespread pest in the United States, causing billions of dollars in property damage annually, according to the National Pest Management Association. These insects live in colonies, thriving in warm, moist environments, and they can remain hidden for years before property owners realize there's an infestation.

Eastern subterranean termites (Reticulitermes flavipes) are the most common species in the U.S., but other species like the notorious Formosan subterranean termite (Coptotermes formosanus) and western subterranean termite (Reticulitermes hesperus) also regularly infest homes and buildings.

This comprehensive guide covers termite facts, identification, habits, and control measures, offering essential information for homeowners facing potential infestations.

Subterranean termite identification

What do subterranean termites look like?

So what do termites look like? Subterranean termites are social insects that live in colonies, with each colony divided into castes: workers, soldiers, and reproductives (also known as swarmers). Their appearance varies based on their role within the colony:

• Workers are small, soft-bodied, and cream-colored. They are responsible for feeding the colony and building mud tubes. Worker termites are the most numerous in the colony.

• Soldiers have large, darker heads with powerful mandibles, which they use to defend the colony. They are slightly larger than workers.

• Reproductives (swarmers/winged termites/alates), are dark brown or black. These termites have two pairs of wings of equal length and are responsible for starting new colonies after leaving the original nest. Swarmers are often mistaken for winged ants, but a key difference is that termite swarmers have straight antennae and equally sized wings, while ants have bent antennae and unequal wing pairs.

What are the signs of subterranean termites?

Detecting a subterranean termite infestation early is crucial to minimizing damage. Look for these common signs of termites:

• Mud tubes: Subterranean termites build mud tunnels to protect themselves as they travel between their colony and food sources. These tubes, made of soil, wood particles, and saliva, are often found on foundations, walls, and crawl spaces.

• Termite damage: Subterranean termites feed on cellulose, which is found in wood, paper, and drywall. Termite damage to drywall or wooden structures may appear as blistering or hollow-sounding wood.
• Discarded wings: After swarming, reproductive termites shed their wings. Finding piles of these wings near windowsills, doors, or other entry points is a sign of a subterranean termite swarm.
• Frass: Unlike drywood termites, subterranean termites don’t leave behind visible droppings (frass), but you might see small mud particles near infestation sites.

Habitat, diet, life cycle & behaviors

Where do subterranean termites live?

Subterranean termites primarily live underground in moist environments. They require contact with soil to survive, which is why they build mud tubes to travel above ground in search of food. In the U.S., they are most prevalent in the southeastern states, but they can be found across the country. 

Diet

Subterranean termites feed on cellulose, which is found in wood, paper, and other plant materials. This makes wooden structures–including foundations, walls, and furniture–susceptible to termite infestation. They will also feed on cellulose materials like books, cardboard, and drywall. Subterranean termites prefer softwood over hardwood, but they will consume any wood that is in contact with soil or has moisture damage.

Behaviors

Subterranean termites are highly organized, social insects that work together in large colonies. They build intricate systems of tunnels and mud tubes to forage for food and protect themselves from the elements. They are also capable of traveling long distances underground in search of food, making them a particularly dangerous pest if not detected early.

Are subterranean termites dangerous?

While subterranean termites are not dangerous to humans in terms of biting or transmitting diseases, they can be destructive to property. Termite infestations can cause  damage to homes and buildings, often going unnoticed for years. They consume wood from the inside out, weakening structures and potentially leading to costly repairs.

How to get rid of subterranean termites

Getting rid of termites requires a combination of professional treatment and preventative measures. Some of the most effective termite control methods include liquid termiticides and baiting systems. Liquid termiticides are applied to the soil to create a barrier that kills termites when they come into contact with it, whereas bait stations, such as the Sentricon system, are placed around a property at intervals. Once they consume the bait, it is carried back to the colony, eventually killing the entire population.

Hiring a termite pest control professional like Ehrlich is the most reliable way to get rid of termites. We can identify the source and extent of the infestation and recommend the most appropriate treatment options.

Subterranean termite prevention tips

Preventing a subterranean termite infestation involves eliminating moisture sources and potential entry points for termites. Here are a few simple steps to reduce the risk of termite infestations:

• Make sure that firewood, lumber, or other cellulose materials are stored away from the foundation of your home

• Repair any leaking faucets, pipes, or AC units promptly
• Ensure crawl spaces are well-ventilated to prevent moisture buildup
• Seal any cracks or openings in your home's foundation or walls that termites could use as entry points
• Schedule regular termite inspections, especially if you live in an area where termites are common

Need help with termite pest control?

If you suspect a termite infestation in your home, it’s important to act quickly. Ehrlich Pest Control can assess the extent of the infestation, recommend effective treatments, and help you protect your home from future infestations. We offer a free termite inspection, so don’t hesitate to get in touch today.

Subterranean termite FAQs