What Kind of Termites Are In Long Island?
Across the globe, there are over 2,000 different species of termites – about 40 of which can be found across the United States. However, here in Long Island, we deal with just one species: the Eastern Subterranean Termite.
These small but destructive pests spend most of the year underground. You may see them in the spring or summer when they emerge from the colony to reproduce and establish new colonies.
How to Identify Subterranean Termites
Subterranean termites are difficult to identify, largely because they’re rarely seen outside of their nest. These pests need a lot of moisture to survive, so they rarely enter the open air for fear of drying out. Instead, it’s important to keep an eye out for evidence of subterranean termite activity, such as:
- Mud tubes: Since these termites don’t want to be in the open air, they build mud tubes to travel to food sources. These tubes usually connect soil to wooden structures.
- Blistering, hollow, or damaged wood: Damaged wood is often a sign of termites. In some cases, it may look like water damage, so schedule an inspection if you’re concerned about termite activity.
- Swarming (winged) termites: One of the only times that subterranean termites leave the colony is to reproduce. In the spring, you may notice winged termites collecting in large groups. This often indicates that there’s a colony nearby.
- Termite droppings: Also called frass, termite droppings have a unique appearance; since these pests mainly eat wood, they excrete tiny pellet-like droppings.
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What Kind of Termite Do I Have?
If you have termites here in Long Island, you have subterranean termites. It’s the only type of termite native to the area. However, it’s also possible you have carpenter ants. Carpenter ants are common in Long Island and easily mistaken for termites. Carpenter ants and termites are approximately the same size, both can have wings, and both are interested in wood.
Are Termites Common in Long Island?
Yes, although we only have one type of termite here, the bad news is they’re extremely common. That’s why it’s important to invest in ongoing termite prevention. Getting an annual inspection can help you avoid the headache (and high cost) of treating a full-blown infestation.
If you want to protect your Long Island home against termites, get in touch with the licensed termite exterminators at Arrow Exterminating! Our team has decades of local expertise, and you can trust us for all your termite control needs.