DAMPWOOD TERMITES

DAMPWOOD TERMITE
Dampwood termites will often be seen swarming during the late spring and on into the early winter, depending upon the species. Despite the name, they will attack any wood, although they prefer wood that has been subject to moisture and decay, especially if there is no contact with the ground. Some will even form colonies in trees. Dampwood termites often work their way upward from ground level, eventually reaching the roof rafters. There are only two castes--soldiers and reproductives, the work of the colony is actually done by the nymphs. A colony may have up to 4,000 individuals.

Dampwood termite anatomy

1.Antenna- fewer than 22 segments
2.Eyes- 2
3.Head - large
4.Legs- 6
5.Wings- 2 pair, on alates only
6.Thorax
7.Petiole- none
8.Abdomen
9.Color- brownish
10.Other- found in logs, stumps, dead trees

Life Cycle
Swarming occurs in late spring to early winter, especially after periods of rain. The female creates an opening in wood, the male enters, and around two weeks later about a dozen eggs are laid. A second batch of eggs are laid later in the year. Nymphs eventually emerge and become soldiers or reproductives.