Termites live in practically every region in the world. Termite season typically runs from February to June, but it can vary by location based on the warmer months, from spring to fall. Most homeowners are conscious of termite behavior during the warmer seasons, as many property owners are making repairs to their homes and landscaping. It is during these activities that they are most likely to come into contact with termites.

However, many homeowners may not be as aware of termites in the winter. During cold weather, homeowners are not as active outside, meaning signs of termites and the damage they may cause in the winter months could go unnoticed.

Termites working

How termites handle cold weather

So, do termites die in the winter? The answer is no. Unlike some insects, termites do not hibernate in the traditional sense. Instead, they engage in behaviors that allow them to endure the lower temperatures, which still includes eating all day. The ideal temperature for all termite species is 75 degrees Fahrenheit, and temperatures below 25 degrees Fahrenheit can be fatal to them if they are exposed for extended periods.

However, what happens to termites in winter depends on two factors: the species of termite and the location of the colony. Subterranean termites, for example, tend to dig deeper into the soil to access warmth from the earth, allowing them to survive the cold seasons. Drywood termites, on the other hand, might be less affected by cold temperatures since they inhabit dry wood, which can be found in heated human structures, providing a relatively stable and warm environment for termites in winter.

Flying termites

Signs of winter termite activity

If termites are active in your house during winter, there are a few signs you can look for:

  • Mud tubes on exterior walls, wooden beams, or crawl spaces are strong indicators of termites active in the winter. These tubes protect termites as they travel between their colony and food sources.

  • Wood that sounds hollow when tapped can reveal hidden termite damage, while doors and windows that become hard to open or close can be a result of termite damage affecting the wood structure's integrity.

  • Termite droppings, resembling small, dark, and granular pellets, could also indicate an infestation.

  • As the colder months get warmer, termite wings near windows or doors can suggest swarmers may have entered your home.

Staying alert for these signs can help detect termites early and prevent extensive termite damage during the winter months.

Don't let your guard down

Though signs of termites may not be as visible, they are still active in the winter. To survive, a termite needs three things: water, wood, and warmth. That means your home can be their ideal environment. If you find any of the common signs of a termite invasion—mud tubes inside and outside your home, damaged wood, or discarded wings—you may be dealing with an infestation.

Termites may be less active in colder periods, but it pays to be on the lookout for these destructive insects year-round. If you suspect you may have termites in your home, call Terminix and schedule your free termite inspection.

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