Dampwood Termites
Family Hodotermitidae
As the name suggests, dampwood termites infest wood with high moisture content. Dampwood termites are normally larger in size than other termite species.
Pest Stats
Color
Creamy white to brownish
Legs
6
Shape
Long, narrow and oval
Size
1/2" - 5/8 inch long
Antennae
Yes
Region
Found throughout the pacific coastal and adjacent states, the desert or semi-arid southwest, and southern Florida
Dampwood Termite Photos
Videos View All Videos
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What kind of damage do termites cause? Dr. Jim Fredericks discusses if termites are a threat to our homes.
-
What are some signs of a termite infestation? Dr. Jim Fredericks, chief entomologist for the National Pest Management Association, has the answer! Learn more about termites.
-
Is there anything I can do to prevent a termite infestation? Dr. Jim Fredericks, chief entomologist for the National Pest Management Association, has the answer! Learn more about termites.
-
What’s the difference between termites and flying ants? Dr. Jim Fredericks, chief entomologist for the National Pest Management Association, explains! Learn more about termites.
-
This video taken by the National Pest Management Association shows a termite swarm caught on camera.
-
Dr. Jim Fredericks, chief entomologist with the NPMA, shares some crucial advice for homebuyers about wood destroying insects and the damage they can cause to homes.
-
Learn about how to protect your biggest investment from the dangers of pests.
As the name suggests, dampwood termites infest wood with high moisture content. Dampwood termites are normally larger in size than other termite species.
Pest Stats
Color
Creamy white to brownish
Legs
6
Shape
Long, narrow and oval
Size
1/2" - 5/8 inch long
Antennae
Yes
Region
Found throughout the pacific coastal and adjacent states, the desert or semi-arid southwest, and southern Florida
Videos View All Videos
-
What kind of damage do termites cause? Dr. Jim Fredericks discusses if termites are a threat to our homes.
-
What are some signs of a termite infestation? Dr. Jim Fredericks, chief entomologist for the National Pest Management Association, has the answer! Learn more about termites.
-
Is there anything I can do to prevent a termite infestation? Dr. Jim Fredericks, chief entomologist for the National Pest Management Association, has the answer! Learn more about termites.
-
What’s the difference between termites and flying ants? Dr. Jim Fredericks, chief entomologist for the National Pest Management Association, explains! Learn more about termites.
-
This video taken by the National Pest Management Association shows a termite swarm caught on camera.
-
Dr. Jim Fredericks, chief entomologist with the NPMA, shares some crucial advice for homebuyers about wood destroying insects and the damage they can cause to homes.
-
Learn about how to protect your biggest investment from the dangers of pests.
Habits
Dampwood termite colonies, like drywood termites, have no worker caste. The nymph dampwood termites take care of the kings and queens of the colony and feed the soldier caste. These termites create a series of chambers in wood, which are connected by tunnels with smooth walls, as if sandpapered.
Habitat
Dampwood termites are usually found in logs, stumps, dead trees, fence posts and utility poles.
Threats
Dampwood termites do not usually infest structures because of their need for excessive moisture. However, care must be taken to avoid attracting dampwood termites to a structure, as they can cause serious property damage. In fact, dampwood termites and other termite species cause a collective $5 billion in property damage each year.
Dampwood Termite Prevention
To avoid dampwood termites, homeowners should eliminate sources of moisture by diverting water away from the home's foundation. It's important to repair leaking faucets, water pipes and AC units on the outside of the home as dampwood termites are often drawn to these areas. Firewood should be stored at least 20 feet away from the house. To prevent dampwood termites indoors, reduce humidity by properly ventilating crawl spaces, attics and basements.
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