Do Termites Smell When You Kill Them?
WouterIf you have termites in your home, you may be wondering, do termites smell? Termites, like mold, have a musty or mildew-like odor.
Subterranean termites live in damp soil or in mud chambers. They can be difficult to identify and they are often confused for mold, mildew, or water damage. However, you can detect the presence of termites if you know what to look for.
Termites are wood-eating insects that like to feast on hardwood trees. Their scent is not as strong as that of carnivores, but it is a musty odor. If you have noticed a musty odor, or if you see signs of a termite infestation, you should call a professional pest control specialist right away.
Depending on the type of termite, the odor can be different. Some types have a sour or bitter odor, while others have a mild or sweet smell. You can find out what kind of smells are characteristic of termites by talking to your local cooperative extension service.
Termites produce an odor in response to food. It is their way of communicating. They use pheromones to mark their trails. These scents are released from glands on the underside of their abdomen. They are important to the colony. Termite workers avoid dirty work and groom each other for hygiene. This smelling system also helps them to detect dangerous odors.
If you notice a musty or mildew-like smell, you should immediately call a pest control specialist. Termites can cause serious damage to your property.
