Termites are elusive creatures that don’t often come out into the open. When they do, however, it is a good idea to know how to recognize them in order to get treatment right away. Termites cause millions of dollars worth of damage to Arizona homes each year. To be able to identify these pests when you see them, it is important to know what termites look like and how to spot signs of termites in your home.

Common Termite Features

Knowing some common termite features can go a long way to spotting a termite if you ever see one in your home or yard. The bodies of termites have only two distinct segments with the abdomen segment being much longer than the head segment. In addition, termites have two straight antennae and six short, relatively straight legs. The color of termites can range anywhere from white or pale yellow for workers to dark brown for winged reproductive termites. Reproductive termites may also have two sets of wings that are white or black in color (depending on the species) and extend the full length of the body and beyond. This brief description of what termites look like should help you recognize a termite if you ever see one.

Common Signs of Termites

Because these insects are so elusive, many homeowners who have an infestation report never having actually seen a termite. It is therefore essential that homeowners know the common signs of termites in order to identify and treat an infestation right away. One of the termite types indigenous to Arizona is the Desert Subterranean species. This type of termite lives in colonies underground and builds structures called mud shelter tubes to travel to and from food sources in a home. If you see raised, mud-colored tunnels leading up to your home, you likely have a termite problem. Reproductive termites leave the nest each year in order to find a suitable location where they can start a new colony. Once they’ve found one, they shed their wings and begin reproducing. Piles of wings, therefore, is a sure sign that there are termites present. In addition, brownish-yellow colored “mazes” on interior or exterior walls is an indication of a termite infestation.

If you see a termite or any of the common signs of termites in your home, call to have your home inspected by a termite specialist right away. For more information about what termites look like or to schedule a FREE termite inspection from the experts at ACTION Termite Control, call (877) 556-4131 today.