![]() The workers are the largest group in most termite colonies, repairing the nest, grooming and caring for nest mates, and foraging for food. A queen is the largest and most important termite found in the colony, producing up to 1,000 eggs per day. The reproductives, including the queen and king, are responsible for mating and populating the colony. Typical colonies have three distinct castes: reproductives, workers and soldiers. Subterranean termites are social insects that live in colonies containing caste systems. If you suspect a termite infestation on your property, contact a licensed pest control professional to determine the extent of the problem and develop an appropriate treatment plan. In order to proactively prevent these devastating pests, schedule annual professional termite inspections for your home. In fact, termites lead to more than $5 billion in property damage each year in the United States, a cost typically not covered by homeowners insurance. Termites are a destructive pest that cannot be eradicated with do-it-yourself measures. Most importantly, elimin ate wood contact with the soil, and maintain a one-inch gap between the soil and wood portions of the building. Additionally, be sure to seal cracks and crevices in the home’s foundation to keep termites out. Never bury wood scraps or waste lumber in the yard. Reduce humidity in crawl spaces with proper ventilation. Divert water away with properly functioning downspouts, gutters and splash blocks. Avoid water accumulation near the home's foundation, as these pests are attracted to moisture. The best method of subterranean termite control is prevention first and foremost. ![]() ![]() Although their body is usually a creamy white color, similar to workers, their head is darker and more brownish in color. They have rectangular shaped heads and their bodies are flat and wide. Soldiers can be distinguished by their large mandibles. They have small jaws that help them chew away at wood and move materials. Workers are about ¼ inch or less in length are have cream colored bodies. Unlike swarmers, workers and soldiers do not have wings. Their bodies typically measure about ¼ to ½ inch in length and t heir wings may have a few barely visible hairs. Alates, also known as swarmers, have long, dark brown to almost black bodies and translucent, slightly milky-colored wings. Integral to a colony’s growth, the queen is the largest termite while the king is much smaller. The reproductives include the king, queen and alates. There are t hree distinct types, or castes, of subterranean termites with physical differences, including reproductives, workers and soldiers.
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