As you start your spring yard work it is important to keep an eye out for tiny pests that can cause major problems—termites. Even if you only spot a few termites, this is cause for alarm. Termite colonies average 3 million members, but there have been documented cases of colonies containing 70 million termites, and these massive populations grow exponentially during the summer months when termite queens lay up to 30,000 eggs a day. It is easy to see why you need to act immediately if you see any termites in or around your property. It is especially important to be vigilant in the springtime, when termite colonies awaken, swarm in search of mates and food sources, and seek to establish new colonies. While termites play a vital role in nature by breaking down dead wood and other plant material, they can cause serious damage to your home. It is estimated that these tiny pests cause an estimated 5 billion dollars in damages in the United States each year, with the average home suffering $7,900 in damages before termites are even detected!

 

Not only do these small pests wreak havoc on your home, they can also lure other pests in search of food. Ants, beetles, flies, spiders, crickets, wasps, birds, and reptiles view a termite colony as a potential food source. Taking steps today to protect your home can prevent the infestation of termites and their predators.

 

Termite Prevention

  • Eliminate Food Sources: Heavy vegetation growth near your home creates a moist environment that termites love. Thin out mulch or pine straw around your home’s perimeter and turn it over frequently with a rake to dry it out. Avoid using wood mulch in gardens or areas close to your home’s foundation. Eliminate heavy brush and any rotting stumps, logs, tree limbs, termite-infested plants, or stacked firewood.
  • Eliminate High-Moisture Areas: Standing water is attractive to termites. Make necessary repairs to indoor and outdoor water lines, seal your foundation, and repair any roof leaks.
  • Clean Gutters Regularly: Check that your gutters and downspouts are properly diverting water away from your home. The frequency with which you should clean out your home’s gutters depends on unique factors for your house, such as the type (deciduous vs. evergreen) and proximity of trees to the roof line, and the slope of the roof. Homes without nearby trees also need their gutters cleaned regularly. Don’t wait until your gutters are full of leaves, soil, or weeds to perform an inspection or maintenance.

 

Wild Trappers Can Help You with All Your Termite Problems

No matter the size of the pest, Wild Trappers can help you with their removal—from tiny termites and bed bugs to coyotes, opossums, raccoons and more. We can also assist you with ensuring your gutters are clean and properly functioning. Whether