When The Weather Gets Cold, Many Might Wonder If Termites Hibernate And Stop Causing Damage To Homes
Termites are small, soft body insects similar in size to ants. They live in large colonies and feed on wood. Here in Florida, we have three major types of termites: subterranean termites, dry wood termites and wet wood termites. However, what happens when the temperature drops? Do these termites hibernate?
Subterranean termites are found below ground level and can damage areas under a home near the foundation. Dry wood termites feed on hardwood structures found in walls and roofs. Wet wood termites are drawn to live timber in forested areas.
Termites are cold-blooded creatures which means they are not able to maintain a consistent body temperature. Cold-blooded creatures are the same temperature as the air, water, or soil that surround them, making them seek warmth in the cooler months. For cold-blooded creatures to survive the winter they have to go where it isn't as cold - which could mean in / around your home.
Do Termites Hibernate In Cold Weather?
Termites being cold-blooded creatures, they slow down when temperatures drop. If temperatures become cold enough, they will hide away with their colony burying themselves underground and wait for the ground to warm up. “For example, subterranean termites create nests in the soil. As the weather gets colder, termites dig further into the ground, where temperatures remain warmer. In some cases, evidence of termite colonies has been found at a depth of 40 inches below ground. They will not be as easy to find, but all species of termites are still active in the winter months.”
Just like roaches or ants, warmth will keep termites active in the winter months. If you have a garage, patio, heated crawl space or a space with warm soil around your home termites will find it to keep warm. Termites don't require sleep to build energy, which means they will be feeding on the wood of your home 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, all winter long. Yikes!
If You Think Termites Hibernate, Think Again and Don't Let Your Guard Down
Signs of termites may not be as visible in the winter, but that doesn't mean they are not there. They need three things to survive: water, wood and warmth, and in a heated home, those needs can be met.
Eliminate moisture and termite food around your home. These simple steps can make your home a less attractive target, helping deter termites. Termites leave warning signs. Signs of a termite infestation include wood that sounds hollow when tapped, cracked or bubbling paint, mud tubes on exterior walls or crawl spaces, and a temporary swarm of winged insects in or around your home.
The Best Time To Get A Termite Treatment Plan Is Now
Super D Pest Control is number one in the pest control business specializing in the fight against termites. If left untreated, termites can cause irreparable damage to a home in less than two years. If you are a homeowner in Tampa Bay, you need to have a regular termite treatment plan in place. Call Super D Pest Control today at (727) 433-5310 for a free consultation and to schedule a termite inspection or contact us online. We look forward to serving you!