Termites in Mississippi

Termite Activity in Mississippi

Termites are active across the state, from Gulfport and Biloxi to Hattiesburg and from Jackson to Tupelo, Mississippi.

What Types of Termites Are in Mississippi?

Subterranean and drywood termites are known to damage homes in Mississippi. Subterranean termites are located throughout the state. Southeastern drywood termites are not common in all parts of Mississippi – most infestations are limited to the three coastal counties.

Subterranean termite:

Unknown Type:

Drywood termite:

Unknown Type:

Are Formosan Termites in Mississippi?

Formosan termites were first identified in Mississippi in 1984. Since then, they have been reported in a number of southern and central Mississippi counties, including Adams, Covington, Jones, Pike, Forest, Marion, Pearl River, Hancock, Harrison, Jackson, Hinds, Rankin, Madison and Lauderdale. Formosan termites are most common in coastal counties.

The Mississippi Agricultural & Forestry Experiment Station (MAFES) tracks Formosan termite activity. Possible Formosan infestations should be reported to the MAFES scientists at the University of Mississippi in Starkville, Miss.

Formosan termite:

Unknown Type:

When Do Termites Swarm in Mississippi?

Generally, termites swarm on a warm day after a rainfall. Swarms also may occur during the winter in heated buildings. The swarming habits of the most common species in Mississippi are described below.

• The eastern subterranean termite typically swarms in the morning, any time from February to May.

• The Formosan termite swarms at night during the late spring.

• The

• southeastern drywood termite

• swarms at night in the spring.

• The dark southeastern subterranean termite swarms during the day in March and June.

• The arid-land subterranean termite swarms in daylight between January and March.

More Information about Termites in Mississippi

According to Termite Infestation Probability Zones (TIP Zones), Mississippi is located in TIP Zone #1 (very heavy), which means the potential for termite damage is considered significant. Areas with higher probabilities for termite activity require more termite control measures to meet International Residential Code building standards for new homes than areas with less frequent activity.

In states like Mississippi where termites are very active and widespread, it is essential to maintain an effective termite prevention and control program. If you own a home in Mississippi, talk to your termite control expert about methods to help protect your home from termite infestations and damage.