Termites - Abroad?
Would it be legal and possible, to send termites abroad as well as sending them between states? They would make a perfect little breed for any vivarium. Great food for amphibians, as well as others.
A personal answer via Email would be great.
- Jan
Jan
2010-02-02 05:27 PM
Temperatures & Depth Of Subterranean Nests
Behind the panelling and on the surface of the underlying sheet rock I have found tubes from floor to ceiling. For the past two-three years in Spring we have had a swarm of termites come out from behind the panelling at the top of the narrow crown molding. Year-before-lest they ate a trouch in the textured ceiling. My wife and I with vaccuum cleaners have fought and consumed the swarm. I want to get rid of the nest. There is a concrete foundation wall and a crawl space. It looks like I have to remove the sheet rock to see if they got into the stud work. Any suggestions or comments would be helpful. - Bill
Bill Hamilton
2010-02-02 05:27 PM
RE: Purchasing a Home with prior termites
The prior existence of termites in the house is not a deal breaker; no more than a faucet that once leaked and is now fixed. There are two issues here: the previous termite infestation, and all the repairs. We’ll take the repairs first. I don’t think that all the new things added to the house — all new hardwood floors, for example, were due to termite damage. It is unlikely that a termite infestation required that the house be gutted and renewed. It could be that a house this old simply needed some updating. Now, to the termite infestation. The modern insecticides available today to eliminate termite infestations also provide long-term protection. They work at low concentrations, they work very well, and for a long time. If this house was treated by a professional pest control company (make sure of that), then you should have confidence that the house is now protected.
William H. Robinson, Ph.D.
2010-01-12 10:07 AM
RE: Fruit Trees have Termites
It is possible that the trees you describe have termites, but most likely the termites will be found with the dead tree and not the living trees. I think thing for you to do is have your house inspected for termites, especially the part of the house (foundation) that is close to the trees. You can call another pest control company for the inspection or use the company that treated your house two years ago. The important thing is to have the house inspected to make certain that any termites associated with the trees have not moved to your house. It is the house you should be concerned about first, then the trees. Modern termiticides can be used to treat around the trees (to kill termites if they are there), and these chemicals will not be carried by the root system into the fruits of the tree.
William H. Robinson, Ph.D.
2010-01-12 10:02 AM
Purchasing a Home with prior termites
I have been in the housing market now, and found a cute beautiful home that has been recently "Rehabed". It has everything new in it and done to it. I came to find out that, the reason is was completley gutted was due to it have "Termites". I don't know how bad the case was, but i am thinking pretty bad due to it has all new hardwood floors, siding and roof, and just looks completely new. It is a 1954 house, and looks new on the outside. My question is, is this a deal breaker when considering this house to purchase? I don't know if i should just look the other way and start running? Please advise...thank you!! Candiss
p.s. I have had no knowlege of termites and we typically don't get them much here in Illinois, so this is new for me, and i certainly don't want to buy a new house for me and my 11 year old son, to have later termite problems.
Candiss
2010-01-11 05:10 PM
Fruit Trees have Termites
My house is a City type single family house located in Los Angeles, California. Trees (most of them are fruit trees) were planned along the 2 side walls and the back wall in a ”U” shape configuration. The closest tree to the house is about 10 ft apart. Several months ago, I found termite drops at several fruit trees, and I also noticed several termites at the root of a rotten small tree which I pulled out. I called up the termite man who did the termite fumigation of my house 2 years ago to evaluate the situation. He confirmed termite (both types) activities at those trees. Then, he said let him tall to his boss to find out what kind of chemical should be used for treatment. Several days later, He called and said that they can’t do anything, and ask me just to observe the situation. I think they don’t want the liability of treating the fruit trees and poison the fruits. However, observation is not a solution for the situation. Therefore, I need your expertise advice for what I should do correctly. Will termite treatment poison fruits from the trees?
James
James Chun
2010-01-11 05:09 PM
RE: termite infestation and itchy skin
The symptoms you have fit the conditions described for the apartment and building. The symptoms are most likely an allergic reaction to the insect parts (especially the particles of wings) scattered in the dust on the floor.
My thought is that you are being exposed to insect allergens and these allergens are likely causing the sneezing, watery eyes and itchy skin. There may be an infestation of termites, and likely drywood termites in the building. The "eggs" you describe are probably the granular frass (droppings) produced by drywood termites. If this frass is visible on the floor, it is likely the floor (at least) is infested.
There are two issues here: the infestation of termites, and the allergic reaction produced by the insect debris. The first will have to be solved by a professional pest control company, and should be straightforward. Drywood termites can be controlled with modern insecticides. The second issue is a little more involved. Removing the insect debris (particles of wings, frass) with a vacuum cleaner will place more allergens in the air, and could result in a more severe or prolonged reaction in someone doing the work or exposed to the work. Clearly, you should not do the cleaning, and should let the air settle for 2-3 hours after cleaning before you re-enter.
William H. Robinson, Ph.D.
2010-01-04 03:43 PM
termite infestation and itchy skin
I moved into a small Deco building in Miami Beach in May 09 and after the be-weekly Pest control stopped , we started to feel itchy skin ( like needles ), sneezing, watery eyes..I figured that the building is infested by dry wood termites. I find termite eggs close to open hardwood cracks (they are everywhere) and the particles of their lost wings. The quantity of dust in this apartment is amazing.
The whole problem is that the itchy skin and the air in this apartment changes the mood of the tenants and the energy is very negative. When you come from work, the air seems hard and not soft. It is so difficult to describe, I think it is all related to a heavy termite infestation. Should I call the code enforcement to do an inspection? The owner and property manager are not moving to do something.
aja
2009-12-29 11:33 AM
RE: Termite Protection
Houses built atop wood pilings start with some level of termite protection because the local building codes would require the use of "treated" lumber (treated with wood-preservation chemicals) for the pilings and probably for the first course above the pilings. This treatment would prevent termites from eating through the wood, and probably force them to build tunnels on the outside of the pilings — where regular inspections would detect them. Infestations that might start above ground from swarmers, such as drywood termites, would also be identified by regular inspections from a professional.
Application of liquid termiticides to loose sand may not be prudent or even necessary. The river sand may form a natural barrier to subterranean termites, if the particles are the right size — which is 1.4-3.3 mm. If the sand passes through a 16-mesh screen, the particles are too small. The sand may offer other protection, since termites would be less likely to establish nests in this type of substrate. In the end, this type of house may be best protected with regular inspection and treatment when termite infestations appear.
William H. Robinson, Ph.D.
2009-12-01 03:07 PM
Termite Protection
How do you protect a house built on wood piling supports and a river sand foundation from termites?
Ivan
2009-11-25 02:27 PM
RE: Termite treatment solutions
The termiticide/insecticide you refer to is probably Termidor. It is a liquid termiticide that is applied to the perimeter of infested buildings to control subterranean termites, and to provide long-term protection (typically 10+ years). As a termiticide, it effectively kills termite colonies when worker termites encounter the treatment zone around a treated building.
William H. Robinson, Ph.D.
2009-10-19 09:12 AM
Termite treatment solutions
has anyone heard of a solution called Thermador (not sure on the spelling) as a termite treatment?
rudy
2009-10-15 12:04 PM
RE: Termites as Dart frog food
I’m not aware of any restrictions on sending (live) termites between states. I presume these would be worker termites separated from a colony, in which case they would not pose a threat because they would not establish a new colony.
The food value of (worker) termites is based on fresh material, and generally considered to be 148 calories per 100 grams of termites (protein = 10 gr / 100 grams; fat = 12 gr / 100 grams).
William H. Robinson, Ph.D.
2009-07-14 10:46 AM
Termites as Dart frog food
I am looking to have subterainian termites shipped to me (not the usual probem on this blog) to feed my Dart frogs. Are there any rules about sending subterainian termites across state lines
William
2009-07-13 10:01 AM
RE: Spreading of Termites
‘Do-It-Yourself’ termite control is not an effective way to solve a household termite infestation and provide long-term protection. The limitations are in training, tools, and experience; you are likely to get treatment wrong or only half right. As to the threat (spread) of termites to neighboring houses when you get professional service — well, those houses may already be infested. By treating your home, you will be contributing more to the solution than the (likely) widespread problem if those houses have not been treated. Many of the modern insecticides do not, by their nature, repel termites and send them off in another direction or to another house. They are more likely to control the termite colony that is infesting the house. Research-based information on subterranean termites is somewhat scattered in scientific journals and magazines. This website (Termites 101) has gathered practical information from leading termite entomologists, so I think this is a good resource for information for your neighbors.
RE: Spreading of Termites
2009-03-27 06:17 AM
Spreading of Termites
We have just confirmed infestation in our central florida home. We did research about "do it yourself" treatments and found this to NOT be a viable plan. Is this true ? Also, we live in a neighborhood where the houses were primarily built in the late 1950's, and we have a concern that if we treat, will the termites spread to neighboring homes. We would want to share our experience to prevent damage to our neighbors homes. Also, any advise about resources of information we could share so our neighbors will understand ? Thank you !
Anita
2009-03-24 04:16 PM
RE: treatments
First, I think you should contact a professional pest control company to get an accurate identification of this pest. Treatment for any insect pest is based on what it is; for example, ants would be treated entirely different than termites. Both of these pests are active this time of year. Sometimes it is difficult to distinguish winged ants from winged termites. These two insects can look very similar. It helps to have some magnification to make the distinction. There are some body parts that are different and you'll have to look closely. ANTS (winged ants) can be distinguished by the presence of a narrow waist, three distinct body segments, two pair of uneven-length wings, and antennae that are usually bent or elbowed. Ant colonies may produce swarmers at different times during the year, from spring to fall. TERMITES (swarmers) can be distinguished by having no waist, long and even-length wings, and more or less straight antennae. Most termite colonies produce swarmers in the spring, and rarely in the summer or fall. The most effective treatment for an indoor pest would not be based on or limited to the use of aerosol sprays ("bombing"). You are correct in questioning the use of this method of control. The modern approach to control is to identify the pest and then locate the source of the infestation.
William H. Robinson, Ph.D.
2009-03-19 06:14 AM
RE: termites in landscaping
There are several problems and questions here; let’s start with the termites and get to the treatment. There are some species of ground-nesting termites (in the eastern U.S.) that are active close to the soil surface around landscaping, but this is not usual and most often occurs in mid- to late summer when soil temperatures and moisture levels are high. I wonder if what you have found in the soil are termites, or some other insects. Wood infested with subterranean termites rarely shows damage on the surface, that is "looking like something has been eating it," and subterranean termites do not produce "droppings" (a common warning sign) when they infest wood. Most likely, this piece of wood has been damage by something else and not termites. The cost of professional termite control is typically based on the extent of the infestation and the size of the house. Both of these features influence the amount of time and insecticide that has to be used to achieve elimination. The final cost for some treatments may seem high, but when the time and materials are considered, I suspect that the cost is comparable to other professional services. Homeowners often consider treating their own houses for termites, but this decision may be based on what seems to be a simple task. However, for modern termiticides to be effective, they must be applied accurately to the soil around the foundation, and to specifically-infested sites indoors and outdoors. Like any professional work, tools and experience are important to effective results; professional pest control companies have trained and experienced technicians and modern tools. I think the better question is to consider whether you think you are qualified and capable of protecting your house from termites, and to inspect the house on a yearly basis to ensure that new conditions do not present a new threat.
William H. Robinson, Ph.D.
2009-03-19 06:11 AM
treatments
i've been told that these bugs i in my bathroom bedroom and walk in closet are termites. management are talking about bombing my apartment to kill them.every 2 days they've come and sprayed tnt termite kill. i've heard of bombing for roaches and ants.is this a real treatment
drew
2009-03-17 04:46 PM
I have dug up termites around our house in the landscaping
I have dug up termites around our house in the landscaping. Although we live in a block home, I have noticed one piece of wood in the laundry room ceiling that looks like something has been "eating" at it. No droppings have ever been evident, but I am afraid of hidden damage. Why is it so expensive to get professional help? Has anyone ever treated their own home with success?
Gina
2009-03-16 10:20 PM
RE: termites-renter are they harmful to humans or animals
Termites are not known to cause a specific allergic reaction in humans. However, that does not rule out the possibility of sensitivity or an allergic reaction. Body fragments and airborne particles (usually from dried feces) of insects and other arthropods are capable of causing or contributing to asthma in some individuals, and causing skin reactions. Researchers working with cockroaches for many years have been known to become sensitive to exposure to even small numbers of them. The continuing rash experienced by your husband may have another cause (check fabric softeners, the sizing chemicals used in some new bed sheets, exotic foods). There may be a link to the termites. It may be valuable for your husband to see a physician (dermatologist) and determine his level of sensitivity to plants and animals. Termite infestations should not be ignored— they will not go away on their own. Your apartment may not be the only unit infested. If there are termites visible in your bathroom, the damage may already be extensive and have already spread.
William H. Robinson, Ph.D.
2009-03-03 06:57 AM
termites-renter are they harmful to humans or animals
I have discoverd we have termites where i live ,and i am wanting to know, can these be harmful to humans or animals,they are in my bathroom hanging on my ceiling,i asked because my husband has been fighting a rash for 3 months,and i dont know long the termites been there ,i do know i reported it to the manager 1month ago and still no treatment and we live in apartments,please let me know
Michelle
2009-03-01 10:05 PM
RE: homeowner
Liquid termiticides have been effective and successful in controlling subterranean termites since the 1940s. Like other household insecticides, modern termiticides are the result of chemical research and improved application methods. These insecticides must pass rigorous, five-year testing by the USDA/Forest Service before they are approved for commercial use. The majority of termite control in the U.S. and around the world is done with liquid insecticide injected into the soil around structures. Modern termiticides are generally applied at low concentrations and provide long-term protection — 10 years or more in some regions and soil types. Homeowners have a choice when it comes to selecting a termite control method. Baits are an effective alternative to liquid application, but the level of control is not better.
William H. Robinson, Ph.D.
2009-02-20 07:27 AM
Home owner
We have a Terminex baiting system on our property with an annual fee of $391. The previous owner bought the system after having had liquid protection and having a serious infestation with damage. We assumed the coverage and have had no problems. Now Terminex is suggesting that we can save money by reverting to a new liquid system for an $800 initial fee and $170 annually thereafter with full coverage for infestation and damage and which will also be fully transferable. Outside of monetary considerations, are there new liquid treatments which will be as effective as the baiting stations? Thanks.
Alan Peters
2009-02-19 12:36 PM
RE: Can termites become dormant?
It is not likely that the termites infesting the house of your friend originated from a dormant infestation in books or any other material you had in storage. If there were termites in the storage unit, you would have discovered them in the the things you had in storage. It is very difficult to transfer subterranean termites from one location to another in household goods. The primary nest of these termites is in the soil; with part of the colony moving and feeding above ground.
William H. Robinson, Ph.D.
2009-01-28 05:48 AM
Can termites become dormant?
I stored some belongings ( clothes, books) with a friend for the past 3 years. She has recently discovered termites, and feels that they were dormant and/or "came from" books in my storage boxes. Is this possible? I did not have termites in my home where the boxes were packed, and no problems over the past 3 years, unitl now. Thanks in advance.
Janet
2009-01-26 04:37 PM
RE: Ttechnical Advisor
Thanks for your question, Subhash. There are actually two different ways termites can carry/transfer microbes – on or in their bodies and in the soil that they relocate to find different food sources (mud tubes). Termites carry the same types of microbes as many other organisms on and in their bodies. However, there are certain microbes, called protozoans, in the termite stomach that cannot survive after termites die (meaning it is not likely these microbes would contaminate your sample). Termites also transfer different microbes when they come up from the soil to create mud tubes. These tubes can contain a variety of microbes, like fungi and bacteria – although the exact type of microbe depends on the soil type, temperature and climate. I recommend you get in touch with a soil microbiologist to determine your soil type, which should help you figure out which microbes could be affecting your sample.
Ron Harrison, Ph.D., Orkin Technical Director
2008-11-05 02:29 PM
Ttechnical Advisor
The cleanroom area of a pharamceutical parenteral facilty has wooden partitions which over a period of time has been badly infested with sub soil termites. The area in question however has been treated extensively with Chloropyrophos and all the termites hv been destroyed.However we hv sometimes witnessed microbial contamination in the finished product. As a part of root cause analysis I suspect this contamination is due to dead remanents( body parts ) of termites still pervailing in the cleanroom environment. May I know the name of microbes which are present on dead body parts of termites so that I may be able to do differnetial identification of these microbes and single out particular microbe as a root causative agent of contamination . A list of such microbes may kindly be provided to me for my guidance. Regards, Subhash
Subhash Chopra
2008-11-02 12:29 AM
RE: Home owner
It is not common for termites to attack redwood (Sequoia sempervirens)trees--this is one of the wood species that is considered to be resistant to termites. Perhaps the damage to the wood has been done by other insects, such as a longhorned beetle.
William H Robinson, Ph.D.
2008-07-01 04:37 PM
Home owner
I bought a old homestead which was infested due to general wood to ground contact. the house was lifted and lost as a food source for the colonies below ground. This could not be achieved for the redwoods trees on the property. The termites are now eating the sap wood on all the trees. Branches no longer capable of transporting water are dying. If a branch is stripped or its bark, there are termite tunnels all through the Outer white wood layer, What can I do?
kurt Alfred
2008-06-25 08:37 PM
William H. Robinson, Ph.D., TermiteTalk blogger