Termite infestations in unexpected places

Marcie Downing, Sentricon Market Development Specialist, Corteva Agriscience

Termites don’t always play by the rules, and some of the recent stories from the field prove it. Just some of the unexpected places PMPs have reported finding termite infestations include:

• Concrete jungle. In Ohio, termites were found invading the foundation of a street corner building, underneath a road and surrounded by concrete. What made this location even more challenging was that mud tubes also were located in the mechanical room of a nearby underground parking garage and in the concrete slab beneath a carpeted office complex.

• Boating season. In Florida, it’s not unheard of to find that a new termite colony has established itself on a boat during swarm season. Formosan termites are often the culprits, because they swarm at dusk and are attracted to marina lights.

These examples are a great reminder about the importance of a thorough inspection when treating a termite infestation. By understanding what you’re up against, it can help you better select your treatment method.