Formosan termites: They’re in Florida and they’re ravenous

Invasive species has colonies that can contain millions of individuals

They’ve been approaching gradually since the 1960s and have made it to Florida. Formosan subterranean termites are now wreaking significant destruction in the Sunshine State.

Likely endemic to China, these pests have been chomping their way across the globe since someone accidentally transported them to Japan in the 1600s. They reached Hawaii in the 1800s. Then in 1980, an established colony showed up in Hallandale, FL.

The staggering numbers inside each colony are what make Formosan subterranean termites so formidable. While most native termite species contain hundreds of thousands in a colony, this prolific invader can number in the millions.

Like other kinds of subterranean termites, these attack your wooden structures via mud tubes from the ground up. But worse yet, winged individuals can set up a colony unconnected to the ground – for example, in your attic. These aerial colonies account for a quarter of all infestations.

One telltale sign that these termites may have zeroed in on your home is the presence of massive airborne swarms nearby. Members of the flying caste (alates) are about a quarter-inch long and have four wings of equal size. Another evidence of the Formosan termite’s presence is that its colonies often create remote nests called “cartons” inside your walls. They consist of large soil clumps, chewed wood and fecal matter.

As is the case with most other species of termites, the soldier caste is characterized by oversized heads containing large, protruding mouth parts. One distinguishing trait of the Formonsan soldiers is that they have more of a teardrop-shaped head than the others species.

This is the time of year to be looking out for these termites. They tend to swarm from April through June.

If you’re concerned that you might have a termite infestation of any kind, contact Slug-A-Bug immediately. We have the experience to deal with this problem effectively, in the most eco-friendly manner possible. Call us for a free evaluation at (321) 259-7844.