Stay Dry & Keep Dampwood Termites at Bay

Description

As the name suggests, dampwood termites infest wood with high moisture content.

These termites are normally larger in size than other termite species. Bodies of king and queen termites range in size from 1/2 inch to 5/8 inch long and have two pairs of wings that are equal in size and shape and extend beyond their abdomen. Nymphs range up to 5/8 inch and worker termites are up to 3/4 inch.

Colour: Brownish

Legs: Six

Shape: Long, narrow, oval

Size: ¾ – 1 inch

Antennae: Yes

Flying: Yes

Habits

Termite colonies, like drywood termites, have no worker caste. The nymph dampwood termites take care of the kings and queens of the colony and feed the soldier caste.

Habitat

Due to their need for excessive moisture, dampwood termites are not often found in structures.

Threats

Dampwood termites do not usually infest structures because of the low moisture content of wood in structures. However, care must be taken to avoid attracting dampwood termites to a structure.

To avoid dampwood termites, make sure downspouts and gutters are diverted well away from the structure, and avoid prolonged contact between a structure and large areas of moisture, such as ponds or snow drifts.