How Far Can Termites Travel Underground?
WouterTermites travel underground in search of food. They do this by creating tunnels that connect to the soil or wood. They then use chemical odors to attract other termites to the source of food. These chemical odors are also called scent trails. They are important for the sustainability of a termite colony.
Depending on the type of termite, the foraging territory will vary in size. This area will be centered around the colony’s underground galleries. Subterranean termites will usually forage over a larger area than other types of termites.
Depending on the type of termite, a foraging territory may be more than half an acre in size. Termites do not like traveling far away from their colony.
Foraging activity depends on several factors, including temperature, moisture, and the type of soil. Termites prefer a moist environment. They need a good supply of water to keep their tubes wet. If the soil is dry, the termites will find it harder to survive.
During winter, subterranean termites remain about 18 to 20 feet deep below the ground. They build tunnels and shelter tubes to help them maintain their connection to the soil. They use these tunnels to transport food to their colony.
During the spring and summer, mud tubes and galleries are created to help the termites to find sources of cellulose. They will also travel along the edges of buildings, pipes, and other objects.
Termites will enter a home by tunneling under the earth or by eating away at the exterior wood. Once in the house, they will eat away at the drywall, hardwood flooring, carpet, and books. They will also eat away at wooden support beams.
