Subterranean Termites in Seattle, WA

Subterranean Termites

Subterranean termites are very common pests throughout the United States, and they are notorious for causing significant and costly damage to homes and buildings. It’s estimated that subterranean termites cause $5 billion in damages each year, making them one of the most destructive pests in the country. Swarmers are generally dark brown to black in color with two pairs of equal-sized wings. Meanwhile, workers and soldiers have a paler and more translucent color with no wings. Though subterranean termites look similar to winged ants, they can be distinguished by their straight antennae and thicker waist.

Subterranean Termite Habits

Subterranean termites primarily feed on cellulose, which is a key component in wood. Additionally, these pests are very sensitive to dehydration, so they are usually drawn to damp wood or areas with moisture problems. To preserve humidity as they travel, subterranean termites will build small mud tubes that are generally about a quarter inch to an inch thick. These mud tubes are often located in crawl spaces or near a home’s foundation, and they are one of the most obvious signs of an infestation. Since termites primarily live underground or inside of wooden structures, it can be difficult to identify an infestation before it causes considerable damage.