(Newswire.net – March 4, 2013) Birmingham, AL–A common mistake frequently made is confusing flying ants with swarming termites. The similarities between the two make it easy for this to happen, however, there are several keys used to differentiate swarming termites from flying ants. Swarming termites have two sets of wings, equal in length and considerably longer than the body of the termite. While flying ants also have two sets of wings, one set is shorter than the other and the longest is only slightly longer than the body, if at all. The body of the flying ant will have a constricted or “pinched” waist, just like a non-flying ant. On a swarming termite the body will be thick, without a visible waist section.
All of this information is valuable when evaluating the pests around your home, but wouldn’t it be better to call in a professional like Mr. Bugg’s Pest Patrol who specializes in termite control, to give you the piece of mind you and your family deserves? It would even be better if you could help prevent the infestation from ever happening in the first place.
The subterranean termite species native to the greater Birmingham Alabama area live in the soil to obtain the moisture required to thrive. If sufficient moisture is present in a structure, the termites need not return to the soil, and can therefore avoid the treatments designed to protect the home. Various reasons moisture can be present in the home include roof, gutter or plumbing leaks, deteriorated caulking around windows and doors, improperly installed irrigation systems and water collecting around the foundation or in the crawlspace. These conditions not only increase the risk of termite damage, but may also cause damage by themselves.
A non-native subterranean termite species has become a concern regarding termite control in Birmingham. Used railroad ties have been attributed with introducing Formosan Termites into our neighborhoods. Because the ties were previously in contact with soil on at least three sides, and are frequently transported across state lines, many homeowners have unintentionally invited Formosan Termites to dine on their home. Since Formosan colonies can number in the millions, and foraging can be in excess of 300 feet, a homeowner can be affected by their neighbors’ landscape choices.
The ability to identify termites and conditions conducive to an infestation will help homeowners minimize their chances of termite damage. However, when in doubt, please give Mr. Bugg’s Pest Patrol come by and put your mind at ease.
Mr. Bugg’s Pest Patrol
3179 Lee StreetPelham, AL 35124
2056631919
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