Subterranean Termites In AZ: Fascinating Details About These Termites

I am sure you know that “AZ” stands for Arizona, so pardon me as I short-phrase this beautiful city’s name.

Since some parts of Arizona are desertified, people often believe that termites should not be able to thrive in this area.

However, it will shock you, just as it did me, that they thrive very well and even divide themselves into 2 subspecies so as to survive and cause damage to the city of Arizona. Stay with me!

 

Introducing You to the Subterranean Termites in AZ

The subterranean termites in AZ are very dependent on the moisture from the soil and therefore build their colonies underground so as to maintain this contact.

They often construct mud tubes, which they link from their nest to food sources. Do you know why they construct these mud tubes? It is because they are allergic to the air and tend to become dehydrated if they stay for long.

This is why they need these mud tubes to protect them from being dehydrated by the air while they search for food sources. Afterwards, they return to their nest for moisture.

If you live in Arizona, these are the termites you will likely come across.

 

Read also: Are There Termites In Utah?: Termites Vs The Cedar City

 

What are the Subterranean Termites in AZ?

• Arid Land Subterranean Termites:

Arid land subterranean termites are the most popularly seen subterranean termites in Arizona and are mainly attracted to moisture.

They will readily attack decaying wood, dry timber, etc. One advantage that you may have is that these termites do not thrive well in southern Arizona due to the high temperature of the area.

• Desert Subterranean Termites:

The arid land termite may be the most commonly seen termite in Arizona; however, its damage does not compare to that of the desert subterranean termite.

These subterranean termites in AZ will attack the following materials:

• Floors
• Cactus
• Utility poles
• Lumber
• Rafters, etc.

 

What are the Signs of Subterranean Termites in AZ?

• Mud Tubes:

This is the most definite sign of subterranean termites in AZ. These termites construct pencil-sized mud tubes that resemble veins, which they use to travel to and from their colony.

I previously mentioned that this mud tube protects them from being dehydrated by the air, but there is another advantage to this vein-like passageway.

The mud tube protects them from predators, as it keeps them out of sight of dangerous predators that may want to feed on them.

You will often find these mud tubes on the following parts of your structure:

• • Floor joist
  • Foundation walls, etc.
• Termite Swarm:

All termites have seasons when they swarm, and the subterranean termites in AZ are no exception. These termites will often swarm during a particular season to form and begin new colonies.

Spotting termite swarms around your property is a definite sign of a termite infestation.

• Damage To Wooden Structures:

If you gently tap on wood and it produces a hollow (emptiness) sound, then it may be due to a termite infestation. Since termites chew through wood, they tend to leave some parts of the inside of the wood empty.

It is bad to allow them to infest your home, as their chewing through the wood of your structure may cause a weakness in its structural integrity.

 

Read also: Are There Termites In New York?: Can They Adapt To The Cold Climate?

 

How To Prevent Subterranean Termites in Arizona

• Reduce moisture points in your home.
  • Fix plumbing leaks.
  • Purchase a dehumidifier and place it in your basement.
  • Ensure your gutters and drainage systems are properly maintained.
• Keep the foundation of your home at a certain distance from mulch and the soil.
• Frequent inspection.
  • Regularly inspecting your home or allowing professional pest control experts is an easy step to prevent these insects from thriving in your home or its structures.

 

How To Get Rid of Subterranean Termites in Arizona

• Placement of bait stations
• Fumigation
• Application of termiticides to the soil.

 

Read also: Termites In Iowa: Why Have They Become Popular Over The Years?

 

Conclusion

The subterranean termites in AZ are quite dangerous, mostly not because of their bites but rather the damage that they may cause to the inhabitants of Arizona if allowed to thrive.

Sometimes, hiring the services of pest control experts is necessary to eradicate these pests completely.

What is your take on these termites? Do converse with us via the comments section provided below!

About The Author