How are Subterranean Termites Different than Drywood Termites?

Don't Let These Termites Become the New Residents of Your Home!
Drywood Termites

Termites in general keep NJ termite control professionals busy throughout the year, but these pests aren’t all alike. Two of these types, subterranean and drywood, have quite a few differences.

Where Do They Nest?

Subterranean and drywood termites have very different preferences when it comes to their nests. Subterranean termites tend to build nests in the ground and create mud tubes for traveling through. Drywood termites don’t make mud tubes, and they tend to build their nests inside wood.

Swarmers

Both subterranean and drywood termites have winged reproductives known as swarmers, but their behavior differs. Subterranean swarmers tend to fly during the day, while drywood swarmers are typically active at night. Subterranean swarmers are usually found with their wings and body attached, but drywood swarmers tend to shed their wings.

Soldier Termites

Subterranean soldiers have rectangular heads, no teeth and a hard plate on their back that is narrower than their head. Drywood soldiers have rounded heads, mandibles with teeth and a hard plate that is wider than their head.

Worker Termites

Subterranean workers only feed on soft spring wood, and they eat along the grain. Drywood workers are known for eating harder summer wood and softer spring wood. They eat both along and across the grain.

Whether you have subterranean or drywood termites, it’s important to seek reliable NJ termite control services. Contact Allison Pest Control, and we’ll rid your home of these pests.