Do Termites Bite People?

If you’re wondering, if termites can bite, you’re not alone. Many people worry about whether these pesky insects can harm humans. The good news is that termites don’t bite people, but they still pose a significant threat to your home and property. Let’s explore the behavior of termites, their feeding habits, and how to protect your home from an infestation.

Understanding Termite Behavior

Termites are fascinating creatures that feed on cellulose, a substance found in wood, plant matter, and some other organic materials. In South Florida, there are two common types of termites that often infest homes: drywood termites and subterranean termites. Despite their destructive power, termites are not interested in biting people.

Instead of biting humans or animals, termites prefer to stay inside wood or underground in mud tubes, where they feed on cellulose. Whether you have small termites, baby termites, or common house termites, their main goal is to consume wood and remain within their nesting areas, away from human contact.

The Real Danger of Termites: Damage to Your Home, Not You

While termites don’t bite, they can cause significant structural damage to your property. The main threat posed by these insects comes from their ability to consume wood, often without being noticed until significant damage has been done. Termites are notorious for destroying structural elements of homes, including flooring, door frames, window frames, and even furniture.

Though termites are not aggressive, their presence in large numbers, especially during swarm season, can be unsettling. During this time, winged reproductive termites will leave their nests to mate and form new colonies, which can result in a serious infestation. Swarming termites can be alarming, but rest assured, they are only interested in reproduction and not in biting or stinging you.

Signs of Termites in Your Home

Being aware of the early warning signs of termites can help prevent major damage to your home. Here are some of the most common indicators that you might have a termite problem:

• Termite Frass: Termite droppings or the termite casings, the discarded exoskeletons of baby termites, are both often found around windows, doors, and other entry points. Finding termite fecal pellets or casings is a clear sign that termites are nearby.
• Mud Tubes: If you spot mud tubes running along your walls, this is a sure sign of subterranean termites, which use them to travel from the soil to your home.
• Hollow Sounding Wood: If you tap on wooden surfaces and they sound hollow, it could mean termites are feeding inside, where termite colonies are creating empty chambers and galleries.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s crucial to act quickly. Termite damage is often hidden and can progress rapidly.

Types of Termites and How Their Feeding Habits Differ

Florida termites come in two main varieties: drywood termites and subterranean termites.

• Drywood Termites: These termites nest inside the wood they consume, and they don’t need contact with the soil. Their colonies are usually smaller and they tend to infest furniture, walls, and wooden beams.
• Subterranean Termites: These termites live in the soil and build mud tubes to travel to the wood in your home. They are responsible for most large-scale infestations in Florida.

Both types of termites feed on wood but have different habits and environmental needs. Knowing which type is infesting your home can help your pest control provider recommend the best treatment solution.

Don’t Let Termites Take Over: Just Call Hulett!

Termite infestations can cause major damage to your home if left untreated. The best way to protect your property is to call Hulett Environmental Services for a no-obligation, free inspection. Our experts will assess your home, identify the type of termites, and recommend the most effective treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Whether it’s no-tent treatment, fumigation, or the Sentricon bait system, we have the expertise and technology to eliminate termites and prevent future infestations. As a family-owned business with over 50 years of experience, Hulett has earned a reputation as South Florida’s top pest control company. So, if you’re dealing with termites, just call Hulett, and we’ll handle the rest!