Where Do Termites Live?

Termites have been reported in every state in the nation except for Alaska, and they prefer to live in warm climates. Different termite species thrive in various habitats, but they frequently find the ideal environment to nest inside of homes. Some termites live in and need soil to survive, while others prefer to live in dry wood above ground level. Termites have been found living in walls, bathrooms, furniture, logs, and other wood sources found in or near the home.

What is the Ideal Habitat for Termites?

Subterranean, formosan, and dampwood termites all require regular contact with soil in order to survive. This means they live underground and access wood sources by building mud tubes through which they travel. Dampwood termites are often drawn inside homes by leaky faucets and sources of humidity, while subterranean termites often infest tree stumps or moist wood near the home. Drywood termites, on the other hand, live in any habitat with sources of dry wood. They often nest deep inside of wood structures and eat across the grain.

Regions Where Termites Live

Although termites live throughout the country, they are most active in regions with warmer climates. Even though termites can survive in colder months, warm temperatures allow them to thrive and mark the beginning of their swarming season, which is why they are frequently found in areas with tropical, humid weather. Different termite types can be found in the following regions:

1. The southernmost border of the country most commonly deals with subterranean, formosan, and drywood termites.
2. Southeast and southwest regions experience infestations by subterranean and formosan termites.
3. And except for the northernmost states, the rest of the country is susceptible to subterranean termites.

Termites Living in Florida

Subterranean, formosan, dampwood, and drywood termite species have all been reported in Florida. The humid climate is a haven for these wood-boring insects to actively reproduce throughout the entire year, making termite infestations a constant threat to homeowners. Termites can live in a number of wood structures as well as any area with soil, so it’s important to stay vigilant on checking for signs of termites.