Termites cause significant structural damage across the United States each year, and Idaho is no exception. While Idaho is not considered a high-pressure termite zone compared to southern states, Western subterranean termites and arid land subterranean termites are established here. Dampwood termites can also be found, although they typically need very wet wood and are less common inside homes.
Because termite activity often goes unnoticed until damage has already occurred, early detection is the most important protective step homeowners can take. Below are the most common signs of activity and what you can do to stay ahead of the problem.
Common Termite Types Found in the U.S.
There are six major termite categories nationwide:
- Dampwood
- Drywood
- Formosan
- Subterranean
- Conehead
- Desert termites
These species vary in habitat and feeding habits. Subterranean termites travel through soil to reach wood sources. Dampwood and drywood termites live inside the wood they consume. Regardless of type, termites leave identifiable signs once you know what to look for.
In Idaho, subterranean species are the most likely to affect homes, with dampwood termites appearing mostly in very moist or decaying wood outdoors.
Subterranean Mud Tubes and Tunnels
Subterranean termites require moisture and soil contact. To travel safely between their colony and food sources, they construct thin mud tubes along concrete foundations, siding, beams, or other surfaces.
What to look for:
- Thin brown tubes climbing up foundation walls
- Mud or soil-filled lines in crawlspaces
- Small pinhole openings in drywall with soil residue
- Wood that sounds hollow when tapped
Mud tubes are one of the clearest signs of active subterranean termites.
Flying Termite Swarmers and Discarded Wings
In early spring, reproductive termites leave their colonies to mate and start new nests. These swarmers, also called alates, have wings and can resemble flying ants.
Signs of swarming include:
- Groups of flying insects gathering around windows, porch lights, or vents
- Small, matching wings scattered along window sills
- Wing piles near door thresholds and foundation cracks
After mating, swarmers shed their wings and begin forming a new colony. Finding discarded wings is often the first visible sign of a developing infestation.
Why Professional Termite Control Is Essential
Termites work quietly and continuously. By the time visual damage appears, the colony has often been active for years. Professional inspection is the only reliable way to confirm activity, identify the species, and determine the best treatment approach.
Pestcom Pest Management provides comprehensive inspections, customized treatment plans, and ongoing monitoring to protect your home from structural damage.
If you notice mud tubes, discarded wings, soft wood, or unexplained bubbling paint, schedule an inspection right away.