Termite Control: Dampwood Termites

Description

As the name suggests, dampwood termites infest wood with a high moisture content. Dampwood termites are normally larger in size than other termite species. Bodies of king and queen dampwood termites range in size from 1/2 inch to 5/8 inch long and have two pairs of wings that are equal in size and shape and extend beyond their abdomen. Nymphs range up to 5/8 inch and worker dampwood termites are up to 3/4 inch.

Color

Brownish

Legs

Six

Shape

Long, narrow, oval

Size

3/4 - 1 inch

Antennae

Yes

Flying

Yes

Region

WA, OR, CA, NV, ID, MT, FL

Habits

These colonies, like drywood termites, have no worker caste. The nymph termites take care of the kings and queens of the colony and feed the soldier caste.

Habitat

Because of their need for excessive moisture, these termites are not often found in structures.

Threats

These termites do not usually infest structures because of the low moisture content of wood in structures. However, care must be taken to avoid attracting dampwood termites to a structure.

Prevention

To avoid dampwood termites, make sure downspouts and gutters are diverted well away from the structure, and avoid prolonged contact between a structure and large areas of moisture, such as ponds or snow drifts.