Drywood Termites have distinct straight antennae and short legs, which differentiate them from other pests like ants. Their wings have a distinctive vein pattern that can help in identification after they have shed their wings. Like other termite species, they have distinct physical characteristics depending on their caste within the colony. These castes include workers, soldiers and reproductives (alates and swarmers).
Workers are about 3/8 inch long and pale white to cream in colour. They have soft bodies and short legs, helping them navigate tight spaces within wood. Workers are responsible for feeding the colony and tending to the young.
Soldiers are larger than workers, usually around 1/2 inch long. They have a darker, more pronounced head equipped with large mandibles (pincers) used to defend the colony from predators. Their heads are often reddish-brown, contrasting with their lighter-coloured bodies.
Reproductives are darker, typically brown or black, and have two pairs of wings of equal length. They are the reproductive members of the colony therefore they fly out of the colony during swarming season to start new colonies. Their wings are long and translucent, often breaking off after swarming.
Detecting an infestation early can save you from extensive termite damage to drywall, wooden structures, and furniture. Common signs of a drywood termite infestation include fecal pellets (frass) - small, oval-shaped fecal pellets, often found near the infested wood. These pellets are often referred to as “kick-out frass” and are a clear indication of termite activity.
While drywood termites do not pose direct harm to humans (they do not bite or spread diseases), they can cause serious structural damage to homes and wooden furniture. If left untreated, a drywood termite infestation can lead to costly repairs. These termites can weaken support beams, damage walls and hollow out wooden furniture, sometimes causing structural issues if not addressed in time. Additionally, they can damage valuable wood such as antique furniture.