- Author: Andrew M Sutherland
![Figure 4. Time required for western subterranean termites to begin consuming baits installed during four different seasons in California’s San Francisco Bay Area. Red points on termite heads represent the average time-to-attack (number of days between installation and first observation of bait consumption). Red bars extending above and below each point represent standard error of the mean. Photo by Casey Hubble, UCCE.](https://ucanr.edu/blogs/UCIPMurbanpests/blogfiles/103481small.jpg)
Baits Eliminate and Prevent Subterranean Termite Colonies
Subterranean termites (Family Rhinotermitidae) are considered the most serious wood-destroying pests in the world, causing an estimated $32 billion in global economic impact each year. California is home to both native and introduced subterranean termite species (Figure 1). Infestations of wooden structures are widespread and common. Pest control operators (PCOs) have conventionally applied liquid termiticides to control these pests, usually as soil drenches or injections around structures. These treatments may not always be effective, however, especially if good underground coverage is not achieved, if local termite...
/h2>- Author: Mike Hsu
![Numerous yellow and brown termite workers and soldiers.](https://ucanr.edu/blogs/UCIPMurbanpests/blogfiles/100455small.jpg)
During summer swarming season, homeowners urged to check for signs of Formosan subterranean termite
In the lottery of troublesome termite infestations, “Roger,” a Rancho Santa Fe homeowner, hit the jackpot (a pseudonym is used to protect his privacy). In 2021, his house in San Diego County was identified as home to only the fourth documented colony of the Formosan subterranean termite (Coptotermes formosanus) in California.
“FST is one of the most destructive urban pests in the world,” said University of...
/h2>![Winged subterranean termites. Photo credit: Scott Bauer, USDA Agricultural Research Service, Bugwood.org](https://ucanr.edu/blogs/UCIPMurbanpests/blogfiles/98182small.jpg)
Termite Awareness Week is a campaign created by the National Pest Management Association to call attention to the damage termites can cause to structures and to make sure residents and professional pest managers understand how to prevent and deal with termite infestations.
Did you know?
- Of the 23 species of termites in California, only 3 are considered pests. The three pest species are dampwood, drywood, and subterranean termites.
- Subterranean termites are the most common in California. They live in underground nests and can be found infesting wood that is in contact with the soil, including structural lumber in homes...