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Eastern Subterranean Termites

There are numerous termite species native to the United States.  In the southeast Eastern Subterranean termites, or Reticulitermes flavipes, are a subterranean species found primarily in the South and on the East Coast. These insects can have the largest economic impact on homeowners due to their dense distribution.

The Eastern Subterranean termite is a social insect, using swarm intelligence to accomplish large-scale tasks. Established infestations can range from 5,000 to millions of insects and are divided into three castes in any given colony. Workers are responsible for food and maintenance, while soldiers use their oversized mandibles to protect their colonies. Reproductive termites, known as kings and queens, ensure that colonies grow in population. 

Unlike some other insect species, reproductive termites mate throughout their lives and males do not die immediately after mating. However, Eastern Subterranean reproductive termites do shed their wings after mating swarms, at which time they go on to found new colonies. 

Drywood Termites

Formosan Termites

Queen Termite

Soldier Termite

Nose Termites

Subterranean Termites