Termites are cellulose-eating (wood, paper, plant debris) insects known for their destructive nature. They are social insects like ants and bees that form colonies and are known as the “silent-destroyers”. Subterranean termites are the most common type found in Massachusetts and are native to the area. There are three types of termites;
Workers: The majority of the termites are workers. The worker termites are responsible for searching for food, building nests, and taking care of the larvae (young termites). These are mostly pale in color.
Reproductives/Swarmers: These termites are responsible for mating and making new colonies. They reproduce, become kings and queens, and produce offspring to grow the colony further.
Soldiers: Soldier termites are responsible for protecting the workers and the swarmers. They are bigger and stronger and can be easily differentiated.
Be it workers, swarmers, or soldiers, all termites thrive in moisture and predate at night. Let's see below the reasons why termites are nocturnal insects;
They Hate Light
Termites are photophobic (scared of light). Their bodies are extremely delicate and sensitive to light, especially, sunlight. If exposed, they will perish. To avoid light and sunlight, termites prefer to come out at night so that they can safely, without the risk of dying search for food.
They Don’t Like Heat
Just like the light, they are not a big fan of heat. Their delicate bodies are not capable of handling the daytime heat. They will die if exposed to heat. Therefore, they prefer the night as it's easier for them to control their internal temperature. It's also relatively cooler at night.
They Are Scared of Predators
Termites have evolved to be nocturnal over time because during the day they can fall prey to reptiles, ants, and birds. At night, they can peacefully and safely search for food without the risk of falling prey.
Reproduction Happens At Night
The reproductives/swarmers are winged termites and take flight in order to find a potential termite for mating. Flying for a termite feels safer during the night without predators, light, or heat. Other than that termites release pheromones (a chemical that is released by an animal or an insect as a signal for another animal or insect of the same species to indulge in mating). Which are stable and more effective at night as it's cooler.
What Stops Termites?
Now that the behavioral patterns of termites are clear, let's discuss some strategies on how to prevent or cure a termite infestation
Eliminate Moisture
Termites are known to thrive in moisture and dampness. Their primary reasons to infest any place are food, shelter, and water. Damp wooden furniture is ideal for termites to infest. Make sure you address water leaks, and decaying furniture and properly ventilate your home. Dehumidifiers can also be used to control the humidity of bathrooms or basements.
Termite-Resistant Materials
Using termite-resistant materials during construction or renovation is another way of safeguarding your home or workplace from termite colonies. These materials are specially designed with some oils and chemicals infused inside them which makes them decay and termite resistant. Some examples of these materials that are widely in use are pressure-treated wood, termite-resistant lumber, and wood-plastic composites. These materials are especially used where the material is more susceptible to getting wet.
Regular Inspections & Pest-Control Treatments
Regular inspection is the only way to detect an early termite infestation. It is very important to detect an infestation early as it can be cured with less effort. While it is possible to prevent a termite infestation on your own, it is not possible to cure one. For a termite infestation, it is essential to immediately contact professionals. If delayed, it can cause severe damage to your property. One such team of professionals at termite and pest control in general is Ridaway. They provide quick solutions to urgent problems. They are state-licensed, industry-certified, and can periodically visit your home to ensure there are no invaders. The best thing about them is that they use biologically friendly pesticides that leave your home safe to return to.
For a quick solution to an urgent intrusion, RidAway is ready to come to your rescue.
