Are You Ready for Termite Season?

Mar 20, 2013 | Uncategorized

Spring weather is the start of what we refer to as the beginning of “termite season“.  Termite season is when termite swarmers begin to emerge from their colonies in search of a new colony and a mate.  They look for the perfect place: moisture – CHECK…cellulose food source – CHECK…soil – CHECK!  Seeing swarmers is the first sign that you could have a termite infestation in your home.

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A common question is how to tell the difference between a termite and a flying ant.  They may look similar but there are 3 distinct ways to tell the two pests apart:

1. Body – ants have a distinct waist line between the thorax and abdomen while termites have a broad waist.
2. Antennae – termites have straight (or slightly curved) antennae while an ant’s are bent.
3. Wing Shape – termites have 4 wings of equal size while the ant’s front wings are larger than their back wings.

If you spot swarmers or other signs of termites, call your pest management company.  Northwest Exterminating provides a FREE, thorough inspection of your home.