Spring Is Termite Swarming Season: How To Protect Your House

If you’re not worried about termites, you should be. They are responsible for billions of dollars in structural damage every year, according to the United States Environmental Protection Agency. Subterranean termites are particularly common in the states of Oklahoma and Kansas, and they swarm during springtime due to favorable weather. In this blog you’ll learn more about these pests and how we can help to exterminate them.

Characteristics Of Termites

Termites are insects that evolved from cockroach ancestors during the Jurassic period. They mostly feed on cellulose, which helps with the decomposition of leaves and wood. There are about 2200 known species of termites worldwide, but only 70 can potentially infest homes and other human structures.

Among these species, the subterranean termite is one of the most dangerous for properties in Oklahoma. Organized in colonies, they behave similarly to bees and ants, and eventually they crawl to the surface to look for wood.

Subterranean termites’ colors vary from a creamy white to dark, with shades of brown and black. They have six legs and measure 1/8 inch long on average.

Risks For Your Property

A termite infestation can be devastating to your property. While they are tiny insects, they reproduce at a frightening speed. It can be difficult to notice the damage in your house’s structure before the situation gets worse, and in extreme cases it could even collapse. That’s why it’s advisable to hire a pest control company to perform a diagnostic, get rid of all termites, and prevent financial loss.

According to studies conducted by Oklahoma State University, property owners should be more aware during the months of March, April, and May. This period marks the arrival of spring and milder temperatures, but it’s also the termite swarming season.

 

 

 

How To Prevent Termites

When it comes to termites, people often take too long to realize they have a pest infestation under their noses—and houses. After all, it’s very hard to spot an insect that lives underground. Termites are also frequently mistaken for ants because some species have the same color pattern.

Parker Pest Control follows the recommendations of the Oklahoma State University Entomology Department to treat termites. First, our team carefully inspects properties to identify spots that could attract termites. Then, we insert monitor baits in the soil to detect any presence of  subterranean termites. Finally, if we find them, we use Termidor, an undetectable liquid pesticide. This substance kills the termites slowly but effectively and the transfer effect causes termites to contaminate each other. Now your home is safe again!

Whether you want to prevent your home from a termite infestation or you’re already dealing with one, contact Park Pest Control through our website or call us at (580) 762-6614.  

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