Identifying Termites In Los Angeles, Orange & Ventura Counties

Californian homes are subject to dozens of unique termite species. However, only two of these hold any real danger for people, pets, and their properties. There are two types of termites in California that cause the most damage; subterranean termites and drywood termites.

Subterranean termites, sometimes called 'white ants,' are the most prevalent species of wood-eating insect in Orange, Los Angeles & Ventura Counties. These pests typically enter buildings from underground and create large hive-like colonies that cause extensive damage to properties. You can identify them by their creamy white to dark brown color patterns, long oval shapes, and 1/8 of an inch size.

Drywood termites pose another major threat to Californian homes and businesses. Because they do not require much moisture to survive, drywood termites create colonies in the dry, sheltered wood of attics. They have narrow exoskeletons, light brown colorations, and 3/8 to 1-inch-long bodies.

The types of damages caused by termites are as unique as their physical differences. Subterranean termites, for example, cause large-scale damage by eating along the grain of wood. Drywood termites, on the other hand, cause more serious structural damage by tunneling through walls and ceilings. Both species leave behind a series of sawdust-like droppings, commonly called 'frass.'

Identifying a termite infestation around your property can be difficult without direct contact. To determine whether an infestation is in the works, keep an eye out for the following signs and symptoms:

• 1/4-inch holes bored into wood: Termites typically leave behind tiny entry points as they tunnel through the wood around your house. You may also see some frass piled up underneath the holes.
• Mud tunnels around your property: Subterranean termites create mud-like tunnels that transport the insects from their colonies to a food source. Keep an eye out for unusual mud structures close to your home's exterior.
• Loud clicking noises: Both termite species make a distinct clicking sound when disturbed. Listen closely in search of any unusual squeaking or chirping coming from within your walls, ceilings, or floors.

Check out a few of our pictures and videos below to easily identify termite species around your home. Don't hesitate to contact The Termite Guy today if you think you have a termite infestation around your property. We can help you stop the problem before it gets any worse.