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Western Subterranean Termite Identification and Control in Utah
Correct identification is an important first step in pest control.
RETICULITERMES HESPERUS
Winged termites are called swarmers that are 3/8 of an inch long with a dark body and legs. These winged termites differ from winged ants in that termites have equal-length front and back wings, bead-like antennae and a broad connection between the middle and rear of the body.
Termites without wings are called workers and soldiers. Workers are 1/4 to 3/8 of an inch long and are a pale cream color. Soldiers are similar to workers, but soldiers have a large head ad mouthparts.
Termites prefer to nest in moist wood in contact with the soil. They use mud tubes to cross masonry or other surfaces. When indoors, termites can be found anywhere wood products and moisture exist.
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Soldier termites have a large head and mouthparts, like this one.
Termite wings are of equal length which helps differentiate them from any ants with wings.
Worker termites are pale cream color.
Termite damage.
Termite damage.
Termites create mud tunnels that look like this.
What am I dealing with
Winged termites (swarmers) and winged ants (alates) can be easily confused. One simple difference is the wing size. Termite swarmer wings are all the same size, while ant alate wings are two different sizes.
Name:
Reticullitermes hesperus
Diet:
Wood or wood by-products such as drywall, paper-based ceiling tiles
Impact:
Termites can cause structural damage to wood and wood products.
Tips for keeping termites away
How To Keep Termites Away
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Eliminate wood-to-soil contact.
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Wood siding, stucco and foam board should be at least 6 inches from the ground.
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Keep vegetation trimmed and away from the foundation.
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Repair leaking plumbing and other moisture sources.
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Reduce humidity in basements, crawl spaces, etc.
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Eliminate wood-to-soil contact.
Learn more about termite control.
What Are Mud Tubes?
Mud tubes are a good sign to indicate a termite infestation. Mud tubes are pencil-sized tunnels located around termite nests, wood structures and concrete foundations. This tube is made out of small pieces of soil and wood. Termites make these mud tubes to help protect them from predators and dry environments while traveling between a food source or nest.
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Pests can be difficult to control, but that’s what we are here for. We create a strategic plan to gain control of your problem and make sure we get results.
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Proper pest management starts with a detailed inspection and assessment from an expert pest professional before treatment. Thorn Pest Solutions uses a three-step process rooted in science to eliminate pests with long-term results.
Assess Situation
First, we identify the root problem(s) with a site assessment. Pests are almost always an indicator of an environmental condition. This will determine the best actions to provide short and your long-term results against pests.
Execute Action Plan
Next, we develop a plan to fix the problems we discovered. This includes solving current pest issues, eliminating conducive conditions, and monitoring for future pest activity. Good pest management starts with a good plan.
Track Success
Lastly, we implement the solutions we developed including inspection, monitoring, and preventing future pest infestations. Good pest control requires a good offense and not just defense. Prevention is key.
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