Termite Facts

A subterranean termite colony is large (50,000 to 2 million termites), and made up of several "castes", each with distinct functions and behaviors. These include reproductives (the queen, king, and winged swarmers), soldiers and workers.

Worker termites are small (0. 1-0.25 in. long), creamy-white insects. Soldiers are larger (0.2-0.4 in. long), about 1/20th as numerous as workers, and have a large, dark head, with long, strong, sharp-pointed jaws or mandibles which they use to attack intruders. Property owners seldom see the worker or soldier termites, but in the spring or fall they may see swarming "winged reproductives." This form of termite can easily be confused with a winged ant unless you look closely.

After a termite colony reaches a certain population level winged (alates) reproductive "swarmers" are produced and leave the colony in a "swarm." A swarm is a mixed group of roughly 50% male and 50% female reproductives which leave the nest at the same time. This is usually follows a rain and occurs usually in the morning. In North Carolina most swarms occur in the Spring (warming temperatures and lengthening days) but along the coast areas fall swarms do occur. Large colonies may release swarmers in several pulse-like groups over two or more days when conditions are correct.

Swarmers initially fly upward and often are attracted to light. After landing, each female breaks off her own wings, raises her abdomen and emits a pheromone which attracts males of her species. If a suitable male finds her, he breaks off his own wings. The pair then "run in tandem" for a short time before searching out a suitable piece of wood in which to begin a nest. Their first brood soon takes over the colony maintenance and food gathering, and the queen reverts to only producing eggs. The pair are mated for life. The queen can produce roughly 1,000 eggs per day by her fourth year of life. If either the king or queen dies, other members of the colony can change into reproductives and replace the lost member of the pair.

Serving Onslow, Carteret, Craven, Pender, Jones and Duplin Counties in Eastern North Carolina

Modern Exterminating's complete termite control services utilize the most effective tools available such as Termidor Termiticide.

Member and supporter of the National Pest Management Association and the North Carolina Pest Control Association.