A variety of insects and animals pose different threats to Las Vegas inhabitants every year. One of those, the termite, continues to be a dangerous creature that causes millions of dollars in damage to homes and buildings every year, even in Las Vegas.
These pests eat wood and destroy structures of buildings. However, they also help keep the ecosystem running by eating decaying trees and plants and pose no direct danger to humans they come in contact with. Keep reading to learn more about termites in Las Vegas, where they live, the signs of termite activity, and what to do about them.
Where do termites live?
Are termites common in Nevada? Are there termites in Las Vegas? In short, yes and yes. Termites live in 49 of the 50 U.S. states, but prefer warmer climates like the ones found in Nevada. Where you can find termites in Las Vegas depends on the species of termite.
The drywood termite builds colonies in dry wood (hence their name) and does not require much moisture to live. A desert climate like Las Vegas, Nevada is perfect for this species.
The subterranean termite lives underground and makes their habitats in soil. The big difference between these two species is the need to be in contact with soil.
There are a few ways to recognize if either of these species is infesting your home or business. If termites are building their home in your walls, you may notice damaged wood trim or paneling as well as blisters in the paint. If in your furniture, especially in antique or wood furniture, termites will leave droppings behind, alerting you of their presence.
What do termites look like?
Termites are small, between ¼ and ½ of an inch long, and are usually brown, white, or black in color, depending on the species. With both wings and antennae, termites can sometimes be mistaken for flying ants. However, termites can be distinguished by their thick waist, straight antennae, and shorter legs.
Early Warning Signs of Termites
Besides spotting a termite inside your home or noticing signs of its presence in furniture or walls, there are a few early warning signs that you should call a pest control expert, like the ones at Las Vegas Pest Control, to evaluate a potential termite infestation.
Termite Wood Damage
A good way to look for signs of a termite infestation is to examine the wood in your home. If your wood flooring has buckles in it or holes beginning to form, that is a good sign subterranean termites are living underneath the wood. If walls or floors sound hollow when you tap them, that could be another sign of termites. These insects chew through wood to get to the cellulose, leaving behind hollowed out pieces of wood.
Termite Swarmers
Termite swarmers are groups of termites that branch out from the main colony to start other colonies. You may see piles of termite wings that termites discard from their bodies when they no longer need them. Finding these swarmer wings around your property is a clear sign of termite activity.
Termite Droppings (Frass)
Termite droppings consist mostly of wood, since that is what termites eat, so piles of their droppings called frass may appear in small mounds that look like sawdust.
Mud Tubes
Another sign termites leave behind as they infest a home are mud tubes. Mud tubes are used by subterranean termites to travel between their nest and potential food sources. These narrow tubes are made primarily of pieces of dirt and wood, and you may find them around the edges of your home.
What To Do About Termites in Las Vegas
If you spot any of these warning signs around your home, don’t hesitate to call Las Vegas Pest Control for a free quote. Our high-quality residential pest control services will ensure that your home is for you and your family only, and our commercial pest services will help keep your business running smoothly.
When it comes to termites, you need expert services to protect the safety and integrity of your home, and potentially save yourself thousands of dollars. Our pest experts can help to keep termites away from your home, or even stop an active termite infestation. Visit our FAQ page to learn more or give us a call to schedule termite control in Las Vegas today!
