What Are Drywood Termites?

Drywood termites are insects that can cause substantial damage in homes and buildings because they construct their colonies inside the wood they feed on. Unlike their cousins, subterranean termites, serious damage can happen without warning signs at all. For this reason, there is a need for homeowners to familiarize themselves a little with these insects and the way they behave.

Key Characteristics

• Appearance: Drywood termites are relatively small at 3/8 to 1/2 inch in length with light brown bodies and clear, translucent wings.
• Behavior: Termites tend to thrive in dry wood and do not need contact with soil. They can therefore infest buildings directly by feeding on the cellulose inherent in wood.