Many homeowners assume that once temperatures drop, pest activity slows to a stop. Unfortunately, that is not true for termites. Even during the coldest months, termites can remain active and continue damaging structures. Pestcom Pest Management explains what to expect from winter termite behavior in Idaho and how to identify signs of activity.
Do Termites Die in Cold Winter Weather?
Termites are cold-blooded insects. Their body temperature matches the environment around them, whether they are in soil or inside wood. This may seem like good news, but termites survive winter extremely well.
When surface temperatures drop, subterranean termites simply move deeper into the soil where the ground stays insulated and warm enough to sustain their colony. If a colony is already established near your home, the soil that surrounds your foundation often retains enough heat to keep termites active throughout winter.
Signs of Termites in Winter
Spring swarmers are a common sign of activity, but swarmers do not appear in winter. If termites are active during the colder months, it means the colony was already established before temperatures dropped.
Signs of winter termite activity include:
- Damaged wood
- Termites hollow wood from the inside, leaving behind weakened or blistered surfaces.
- Termite mud tubes
- Subterranean termites build shelter tubes on foundations or walls to travel between the soil and the food source.
- Discarded termite wings
- Although swarming does not occur in winter, leftover wings from earlier activity may still be found near window sills or entry points.
How to Prevent Termite Infestations
To reduce the risk of termite problems during winter and beyond, homeowners should focus on prevention:
- Repair leaks
- Moisture-damaged wood attracts termites. Fix any leaks that create wet conditions near your home.
- Trim trees and shrubs
- Keep vegetation at least 15 inches away from the foundation to reduce moisture and limit hidden pathways for termite activity.
- Clean gutters and downspouts
- Remove debris to prevent water buildup that can saturate soil or exterior wood.
Winter is not a break from termite risk. Because activity continues beneath the surface, early detection and prevention remain critical for home protection throughout the year.
For inspections or professional treatment options, contact Pestcom Pest Management. Our licensed technicians provide year-round termite control for Treasure Valley homeowners.