During the spring and summer, homeowners are determined to protect their home from termites. Come fall and winter, many will breathe a sigh of relief knowing their troubles are over until the next spring. In most cases, yes. Termites are most active during the spring and summer and come fall their activity greatly reduces. However, termites are not gone. In the state of Texas we are home to Southeastern Drywood termites and Formoson Subterranean Termites, which are well known for thriving and remaining active even in the middle of winter. A-Tex Pest Management will share why some colonies may remain active even through winter.
Does Cold Affect Termites?
As stated, Texas is home to the Formoson Subterranean Termite species. This species lives underground and will dig tunnels under the surface to food sources. What most people don’t know about termites is that they are cold blooded creatures. Their temperature adapts to the surrounding temperatures, which allows them to survive colder climates. There activity is based on the temperatures, so as the temperature drops, so does their activity. As the temperatures drop, most termites will go deeper underground below the frost line to prevent them from freezing. Once the snow covers the ground and the frost begins to penetrate the soil, the termites will retreat deeper into the ground where their activity slows down. However, termites don’t hibernate altogether. They remain active feeding on stored supplies of food if they need to or will continue to forage for food. Even though they may have slowed down, termites will continue to forage and can seek out resources the length of a football field. If your home is within range of their nest, your home could still be targeted.
Do Termites Stay Active in Winter?
As long as termites can travel below the frost line they will continue to forage for food. This can be a problem for a few. However, this isn’t very common. What is more common is a termite colony right next to a home and the homeowner never knew about their presence. If a termite colony was able to mature near a home, or in some cases right underneath the foundation of a home, they typically are spared of the frost or cold enough temperatures that may slow down their activity. Often termites will build their nest next to basements where the home internal structure is exposed and becomes a perfect feeding ground for termites.
Where Do Termites Live in the Winter?
Winter active termites may seem like bad news. However, if you were proactive during spring and summer and did all you can do to prevent termites, there is a very good chance your home is safe from termites this winter season. If you are still worried if your home is under invasion by termites there are some signs you can look for. If subterranean termites are still active they will build mud like tunnels or tubes that can be seen on the walls. They like to protect themselves and will use these tubes for safer passage. They are often seen on ground level near baseboards or high on the wall near the ceiling. The tunnel locations are near their feeding sites and can vary. You may even find a small pile of sawdust either on a window sill or on the floor and you may even see small holes in wood trim. You can hear termites foraging in the wall. If you put your ear next to the wall and you hear clicking noises, that would be termites.
Termite Pest Inspections, Treatment, Control, Removal & More in Austin, Round Rock, Leander, Pflugerville & Cedar Park Texas
If you find your home wasn’t spared termites this winter season, contact A-Tex Pest Management. We provide pest control services including termite control and treatments. For all of your pest control needs, contact A-Tex Pest Management today!
