How Termites Can Travel on Humans
Termites are small, winged insects that live in colonies underground. They eat wood and cellulose, which is a plant fiber that gives tree trunks strength. They are attracted to dark, moist places. They usually stay close to their food source, but can travel far from their nests.
Subterranean termites live in the ground, and enter homes through unsealed foundations. Their tunnels are made of mud and they often move to new locations in mud tubes. These insects can live up to two weeks without food or water.
Termites can be a problem in homes that have wooden floors and furniture. They are prone to causing holes in bed sheets, furniture and other items. If you have a problem with termites, call a pest control company immediately.
The first sign of an infestation is swarming. Termites swarm at certain times of the year. Some species of termites can spread up to a meter a day. Their mating season is during the spring. This is when most termite colonies swarm.
Swarms are caused when termite swarmers fly out of the colony, search for a new mating partner, and mate. They then form a new colony. A mature colony will usually swarm in the spring, but the timing depends on weather conditions.
Drywood termites are the most common type of termite. They are nomadic creatures, living in wooded areas. They are the most destructive of all termites. They burrow deep inside wooden structures, causing significant damage before you notice it.