Termite Identification

Termite identification is an important part of determining how bad your pest problem is and what needs to be done to eliminate it. First of all, you need to know whether you're looking at termites or ants. If it is termites, you need to know which type of termite you're looking at so you'll know best how to get rid of it. After all, no one wants these animals living in their homes, but you don't want to spend a fortune on getting rid of them, either. Instead, identify them specifically so you'll be able to target your approaches at getting rid of them.

Performing Termite Identification

When it comes to termite identification, before you look at anything else, you should make sure you actually have termites, and not just ants. While neither pest is pleasant, ants are easier to deal with than the great and might termite. Avoiding drywood termites can be done when you do this identification, you'll need to find an insect and look at it carefully. It may be easier to find a dead specimen for identification, or to use a microscope if you have one handy.

Termite identification depends on several characteristics: wings, abdomen shape, and antennae shape. Since the termite and the ant look very similar from a distance, and even from quite close up, it's these little characteristics that will identify them. The termite has two sets of wings that are equal in length, a straight abdomen, and straight antennae. The ant, on the other hand, has one set of wings larger than the others, a sharply defined "waist" to his abdomen, and antennae that are bent, or elbowed, in the middle.

Once you've proceeded with termite identification long enough to know that your problem is, in fact, termites, you'll want to know which type of termites you have. Some of this identification will come from looking at the bug, while some of it will depend on where you live and what your home is made out of.

The subterranean termite is the most common type in the United States. These bugs live underground and travel through mud tunnels to get to a home. Common types are the Eastern and the Formosan, though the Arid Land and Western also exist. However, drywood termites also exist in the United States, especially in Southern California and along the Gulf Coast. They don't need moisture to survive, but instead live in and feed off dry wood.

While there's no way that an amateur can determine exactly the type of termites he has, some identification is usually possible. For instance, many subterranean termites that swarm have a black body and white wings. Drywood termites that swarm, on the other hand, often have a red body and black wings. These are just general statements, though, so it's good to leave this detailed identification to the professionals.

What to Do After Termite Identification

Once you've performed a termite identification and you have a pretty good idea what sort of animal makes up your pest problem, it's time to find a solution that will work for you and eliminate the critters. After all, no one wants to live in a home swarming with insects, nor in one that could fall down around your ears anytime. You can get the names of extermination professionals in your area from this site, as well as their contact information. Some of the may even have websites that you can use to make first contact.

Make sure that any professional comes to your home before he talks to you about cost. He'll need to perform his own termite identification process, so he can accurately tell you what will need to be done to get rid of them. Only then can he generate the quote that you'll want before you make your final decision. While it take some time to go through the process of identification with several pros, comparing quotes is a great way to make absolutely sure you're getting the lowest price, or the best treatment, for your home.

It's easy to compare the quotes you get for termite treatment. First, look for anything special, like non toxic treatment. If this is important to you, you'll want to be sure to note who provides it and who does not. Look, too, at price, and anything else relevant about each quote. Then choose the one you feel the best about.

Once you've performed termite identification, you can find a professional extermination service whenever you're ready. Using online services is a wise decision, since it makes the whole process go faster. While you'll want an exterminator to come to your house and see your problem before he gives you an estimate, you can often make first contact with him online. This is simpler and easier than finding an exterminator any other way.