Cold weather can't even stop termites
Subterranean termites love warm weather, but their workaholic nature — feeding 24/7 — means they aren't about to take the winter off. So, what makes termites uniquely adapted to continue feeding on your home throughout the winter, costing thousands in potential home repairs come spring?
Like for all cold-blooded creatures, temperature strongly influences termite activity. However, 250 million years of evolution have given them the tools to adapt. So, as the weather gets colder, termites dig deeper into the ground to avoid frost and find warmer temperatures. Some termite colonies have even been found at depths greater than 40 inches!1
By moving the colony below the frost line, the termites are ready to weather colder temperatures, allowing them to continue foraging for food and up into structures if protected from the cold. While the colder temperatures cause the cold-blooded termites to move slower, making them appear less active, it doesn't mean your home is safe from potential damage, especially come spring as the temperatures warm and activity increases.
Although termite activity slows down in the winter, the termite colony still forages, and your warm home creates an ideal environment for termite workers to feed. With less activity in winter, the signs of termite damage are less visible and harder to spot.
No matter how long the cold weather stretches on, spring is sure to follow with warmer temperatures leading to termite swarm season, increased populations and even more property damage. That means the most effective way to keep your home safe is to prevent termites from getting into your house in the first place. Having the Sentricon® system installed and in place in the winter will be important to intercept and eliminate termite colonies as they move into the area in the spring.
Make sure you aren't cozying up with termites this fall and winter by giving yourself the peace of mind that your home is protected with the Sentricon system.
The Sentricon system can be installed in all weather conditions throughout the year, making any time the ideal time to prevent termites from damaging your home. Get started by contacting Kingfish Pest Control today.
1Smith, E., and R. C. Whitman. 2007. NPMA Field Guide to Structural Pests, 2nd ed. National Pest Management Association, Inc., Fairfax, VA.
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