About 45 species of termites are found in the United States, but only four species of termites are occur naturally in Missouri. Termites are generally grouped into categories based on the habitat in which they live. All of Missouri’s termite species are subterreanian, or in the soil and wood that is in contact with soil.

In human environments, termites are considered serious pests, causing billions of dollars in damage annually in the United States.

Biology & Life Cycle

Like ants, termites are a social insect species. They live in large groups, share a nest and share important roles within a colony. The caste (or groups) include: eggs, larvae, workers, soldiers, nymphs and reproductives.

termites
Termite-Damaged Wood

Habitats in Missouri

Subterranean termites (as those found in Missouri) invade homes from the soil around and beneath the structure. Infestations occur when subterranean termite workers locate structural wood in contact with soil or when termites build shelter tubes from the soil across foundation walls and into structural wood. Subterranean termites may also gain access through cracks in the slab or seams where plumbing and electrical lines penetrate the concrete.

Diet & the Search for Food

Termites do not cause significant damage over a period of days or weeks. Instead, it takes several months or even years of feeding for termite damage to be significant. Termites prefer to feed on the soft grain of the wood. Termites intentionally remain hidden within infested wood, preferring not to be exposed to the outside environment.

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Request a Free Pest Inspection

Or call or text us at 636-297-1335

Or call or text us at 636-297-1335

Management & Eradication

The best time to address termites is when a home is being built. Through proper sanitation, good construction practices and termite barriers, much of the destructive nature of termites can be mitigated.

Post-construction options are limited, but still quite effective if administered properly. Using soil treatments and termite baiting systems, the exterminators at Hometown Pest Solutions are able to effectively control an infestation. These methods are often far beyond what the average homeowner should expect to know and attempt.

Before beginning any treatment, we will perform a thorough inspection and provide a description of the work to be done, chemicals to be used, details of any guarantees and estimated costs. It’s important to hire a licensed exterminator, like those employed by Hometown Pest Solutions, to apply pesticides for specific pests or areas of your structure.

Please visit the University of Missouri’s Termites webpage for more information about termites.

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