Can Termites Live in Trees?
WouterTermites can eat up a huge amount of wood, causing havoc to trees and buildings. Depending on the species, their numbers can range from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands.
Termites are found in most of the world, except Antarctica. These winged insects live in damp and warm environments. They are most active in the summer. They have protozoa in their stomachs and need cellulose material to survive.
Termites prefer to eat dead wood. They build tube-like structures on the base of a tree to keep their bodies moist. They are also known to eat through the bark of a tree.
Termites can be spotted when they create small holes in the wood. They also may leave mud tubes on the outside of the tree. These mud tubes help protect the termites from being attacked.
The best way to find out whether your tree has been infested is to get a professional to inspect it. An arborist can check your tree’s health and determine if it is likely to fall. If it is likely, remove the tree and its roots as quickly as possible.
Infested trees are usually weaker and less stable, making them more susceptible to falling. As they become weaker, they can damage other trees and structures. It is also important to note that a termite infestation can lead to liability issues.
Infested trees are more vulnerable to falling limbs, which can cause injury and harm to humans and animals. Luckily, most termite infestations are treatable within a few days.
