Formosan Termites in Florida: How to Protect Your Home

There’s been a significant increase in Formosan termite activity in Central Florida. Exterminators like Forest Pest Control have been receiving more calls about these particular termites, which means you also need to watch out for them.

Formosan termites are aggressive, reproduce rapidly, and are infamous for causing extensive property damage that can hit your wallet hard in repair costs. What makes these termites stand out is that compared to other termite species, they can live up to six months without water. Since moisture and water are the biggest attractants for termites, this is extra troubling for Central Florida property owners.

The impact of Formosan termite infestation can be devastating both structurally and financially. Taking proactive steps to protect and defend against these determined pests can save you from future headaches and ensure the longevity and structural integrity of your property.

That’s where we come in. The Forest Pest Control termite control team, stacked with expertise, doesn’t wait for the termites to take over your property.

Termites never stop working. Just because you’re not seeing swarmers doesn’t mean termites aren’t active. These pests eat 24/7, 365 days a year, with no time off! Ignoring the signs can lead to significant damage to your home.

Formosan Termites Swarming Season

During Formosan termite swarming season, thousands of winged termites invade your space. Seeing swarmers is a sign they have claimed your home as their colony expansion territory. When they pick your home, it’s more than a nuisance, it’s the start of a full-scale invasion that can lead to severe structural damage before you can say “exterminator.”

So don’t dismiss a swarm as a once-off event, recognize it as the calm before the storm. We at Forest Pest Control view swarming season as a red alert, not just a warning sign. 

What Are Formosan Termites?

Originating from East Asia, Formosan termites have found their way across the globe, creating strongholds in warmer climates, particularly in the southern U.S.

They create intricate mud tubes that serve as protective highways from their massive underground colonies to food sources above ground. Once the reproductive termites swarm and find a suitable environment, they quickly establish new colonies that can thrive for many years, with queens living up to 15 years and laying thousands of eggs in their lifetime.

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Eastern Subterranean Termites vs Formosan Termites

There’s another group beneath our feet that’s no less impressive in appetite and activity: Eastern subterranean termites. These earth-dwelling architects are more widespread and more active than their Formosan counterparts, making them a noteworthy nemesis in the world of pest management.

While both Eastern subterranean and Formosan termites share a hunger for cellulose (what wood is made of), they have distinguishing characteristics:

• Colony Size: Eastern subterranean termite colonies are usually less populous than those of Formosan termites. They often have tens of thousands to a few million members, which is large but falls short of Formosan colonies that can number in the millions.
• Mud Tubes: Both types construct mud tubes, but Eastern subterranean termites rely even more heavily on these structures for moisture while traversing between their colonies and food sources. 
• Swarm Patterns: Eastern subterranean termite swarms typically occur during the spring, whereas Formosan termites tend to swarm in the late spring and summer.
• Geographic Range: Eastern subterranean termites have a more extensive range, thriving in almost every state in the U.S. Formosan termites are more geographically limited, preferring the humid and warmer climates of the southern states.

Formosan Termite Prevention and Treatment

Preventing an invasion of Formosan termites isn’t just about protecting your home structure, it’s about safeguarding your peace of mind and your investment. Once they’re in, they’re like a wrecking ball.

With our innovative treatments tailored to your home or business’ specific needs, we nip the problem in the bud. We go on the offensive so the Formosans don’t stand a chance – protecting not just your home but your future. Starting with an inspection, we’ll focus on finding moisture sources. This is followed by the installation of barriers around buildings.

We also offer a $500,000 termite repair warranty for the homes that qualify. Reach out to us today to learn more!

In Central Florida, proactive termite protection isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity. We’re here to make sure these uninvited guests don’t overstay their welcome. 

Contact us today to learn more about our termite protection services and schedule a free termite inspection. We’re here to answer any questions you may have and help you find the right solution to protect your home.

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