Termites in Texas: Identification, Signs, and Risk
Termites are one of the few pests that can do real damage before you ever see one. Here’s what to actually look for, why Texas’ climate makes this a bigger deal here than in a lot of other places, and when it’s time to stop guessing and get a professional to look.
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Termites communicate by tapping their heads against the walls of their tunnels.
What Are Termites?
Termites are social insects that live in colonies and feed on wood and other cellulose material. Texas homes mostly deal with two kinds: subterranean termites, which live in the soil and build the mud tubes you’ve probably heard about to travel from the ground into your home’s wood, and drywood termites, which live directly inside dry wood and are less common here but still turn up, especially closer to the coast.
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Signs You Might Have Termites
- NPencil-thin mud tubes running along your foundation, crawlspace, or exterior walls
- NWood that sounds hollow or feels soft or crumbly when you tap or press it
- NDiscarded wings near windows, doors, or windowsills
- NSmall, pellet-like droppings (a sign of drywood termites specifically)
- NDoors or windows that suddenly stick, or frames that seem to sag
- NSwarmers (winged termites) especially in spring after a warm rain
Termites or Flying Ants? A Quick Way to Tell
Swarmers season is when termites and flying ants get confused for each other most often. Termite swarmers have straight, thread-like antennae, two pairs of wings roughly equal in length, and a thick waist with no real pinch to it. Flying ants have bent, elbowed antennae, one pair of wings noticeably longer than the other, and an obviously pinched waist.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How Bad Can It Actually Get?
What To Do Next
Are termites dangerous?
No, they don’t bite humans, but they can destroy your home.
How fast do termites spread?
A single colony can expand rapidly, causing major damage within months.
What time of year are termites most active?
Spring and summer are peak swarming seasons.
What’s the difference between termites and ants?
Termites have straight antennae and uniform waists, while ants have elbowed antennae and segmented bodies.
Do termites come back after treatment?
If preventative measures aren’t taken, they can return.
What’s the most eco-friendly termite treatment?
Baiting systems are the best green option.
What’s the best way to detect termites early?
Regular professional inspections
How do I know if my home is at risk?
High moisture and untreated wood increase risk.
How much does termite pest control cost?
Costs vary based on infestation size and treatment method.
How do I choose the right pest control company?
Look for licensed, experienced professionals with good reviews.