Learning allows you to recharge your grey cells and grow as a person. This article helps you learn more by continuing our series covering the basics of termites, with a lesson about their life cycle. Who knew that these bugs could be as entertaining as they are destructive? Let’s face it. We often think of these guys as mindless wood-eating zombies that are bent on world domination by eating our homes. In reality, they are a vital part of Mother Nature’s ecosystem. Each caste has its function within the colony, and the colony’s goal is to eat deadwood. However, we prefer that the wood be out in the forest and not within our walls!

Avoid letting these homewreckers destroy your San Mateo area home. Enlist the services of the professionals at Times Up Termite for a free termite inspection. We know how these bugs operate and custom-design a treatment plan to keep your home pest-free.

The Circle of Life for Termites

The type of job you have determines how long you live if you are a termite. In general, workers and soldiers live about one to two years. If you are the queen and are treated right, you could live to be 10-years-old! Here is the typical life cycle, in a nutshell:

  1. Mating: It all begins with a mating flight. The reproductive termites have wings and will fly off to establish colonies elsewhere. After fertilization, they shed their wings and settle down to build their home where they reign as king and queen. They then become the center of all things termite and continue their responsibility of reproduction.
  2. Eggs: The queen lays fertilized eggs. When hatched, they are pale white larvae.
  3. Molting: The larvae shed (molt) their exoskeletons and develop into different castes of the colony. They may become workers, soldiers, primary reproductives, or secondary reproductives. The young ones that continue molting to become a reproductive are called nymphs. Molting will continue throughout the termite’s life based on the needs of the colony.
  4. Larvae: As the molting continues, the larvae grow into their respective roles. These larvae may become workers who feed and care for the queen or become soldiers that protect the colony and queen. Finally, they may grow to become the adults that can reproduce and expand the termite’s reach through mating.

Keep this Bug from Destroying Your Home – Choose Times Up Termite

Knowing more about your wood-boring invaders gives you the upper hand in eradicating unwanted colonies. Times Up Termite stands ready to provide thorough termite inspections and treatment to ensure your home stays safe. We even offer an effective eco-friendly, reduced-risk pesticide called Altriset. If you have pets, children, or a pregnant mom, in your home, then this may be the right option for you. Give us a call today to schedule a termite inspection for your San Mateo home.

Call 510-568-7200 to speak with our team of knowledgeable, licensed professionals at Times Up Termite, Inc. You can also contact us online to request a free termite inspection.