Are Termites Nocturnal?

Need to get rid of termites? Read on to learn the answers to all your important questions. Need help? Call our professionals today to get started.

Termites and Sleep

When we think of creatures on the earth, we assume that most of them need to sleep. Even sharks, which many of us think don’t need sleep, have periods of rest that is separate from their active time. Not subterranean termites. Termites never sleep. If their temperature drops low enough, they may slow down or even stop for a bit of time. But if termites are inside where it is warm, they never need to rest. 

This means that if you have subterranean termites in your home, they can eat away at the wood structure of your house 24 hours, 7 days a week. 

Different Types of Termites

Subterranean termites typically found in the southern part of the United States. They live underground and travel in mud shelter tubes. Subterranean termites comprise about 90 percent of all termite infestations in the United States. 

Drywood termites are common in areas near the Gulf Coast and in California. These termites live in dry wood, and unlike subterranean termites, do not need moisture from the soil to survive. Drywood termites, unlike their subterranean counterparts, are nocturnal and you may find them when their reproductive winged swarmers take flight to find mates. Because they are nocturnal, you may not see them, but instead, you may discover an infestation through finding a pile of discarded wings. 

Protect Your Home from Termites

Finding discarded wings near windows is not the only sign that you have termites. If you find grass or piles of sawdust in window or door frames, it is a clear sign that you may have an issue with termites. A trained professional can inspect your home to identify the species of termite with great certainty and then create a plan to treat your infestation. Contact Pest Control Experts to find the right pest care professional to protect your home from costly termite damage.