Colorado, despite its often cold and dry climate, does have termites. These wood-destroying insects are present across much of the state, from Fort Collins to Denver, Colorado Springs, and even Grand Junction and Durango. While it might seem counterintuitive for termites to thrive in an arid environment, they have adapted to survive by seeking out moisture and living in concealed locations.
Termite Species Found in Colorado
The primary termite species found in Colorado are subterranean termites. The arid-land subterranean termite (Reticulitermes tibialis) is widespread. These termites require moisture to survive and typically establish their colonies in or near the soil, where temperatures are more stable and humidity is higher. They forage for cellulose, which is found in wood, and can travel significant distances from their underground nests to find food sources.
Another common and destructive species in the state is the Eastern subterranean termite. These termites also live underground and build extensive tunnel systems to access wood.
While subterranean termites are the most prevalent, drywood termites have been reported in specific, smaller areas, such as around Grand Junction. Unlike their subterranean counterparts, drywood termites do not require soil contact and infest dry, undecayed wood directly, often within structures. Formosan termites, a highly aggressive species, have not been commonly reported in Colorado.
Recognizing Termite Infestation Signs
One of the clearest indicators of subterranean termite activity is the presence of mud tubes, which are protective tunnels built from soil, wood, and termite saliva. These tubes allow termites to travel between their underground colonies and wood food sources while remaining shielded from dry air and predators. You might find these mud tubes on foundation walls, in basements, crawl spaces, or along wooden structures.
Termite-damaged wood often sounds hollow when tapped and may appear tunneled through, with maze-like patterns or thin, long tiers within the wood. The surface of infested wood can sometimes look darkened, blistered, or warped.
Another sign is the appearance of discarded wings, which indicates a termite swarming event where winged reproductives leave the colony to establish new ones.
For drywood termites, small piles of fecal pellets, known as frass, can be found. These tiny, hard, six-sided pellets resemble sawdust or coffee grounds and indicate the presence of a colony actively feeding within wood.
Effective Termite Prevention Strategies
Managing moisture is a primary strategy, as termites are highly attracted to damp environments. This involves promptly fixing leaky pipes, ensuring proper drainage around the foundation, and maintaining clean gutters and downspouts to direct water away from the house. Good ventilation in crawl spaces, basements, and attics can also help reduce humidity levels.
Another important step is to eliminate direct wood-to-soil contact around your home’s perimeter. This means keeping firewood, landscaping timbers, and other wooden elements stored off the ground and away from the foundation.
Sealing cracks and crevices in the foundation can prevent termites from gaining entry into the structure. Regularly removing wood debris, such as old tree stumps or fallen branches, from the yard also helps eliminate potential food sources and nesting sites for termites.
When to Seek Professional Termite Control
If you suspect a termite infestation, contacting a professional termite control service is recommended. Termites are often difficult to detect until significant damage has occurred, and their eradication requires specialized knowledge and and tools. Professional inspectors can accurately identify the type of termite and the extent of the infestation.
Attempting do-it-yourself termite control can be ineffective and potentially lead to more costly damage. Professionals can apply targeted treatments, such as liquid termiticides around the foundation or baiting systems to eliminate the colony.
Regular professional inspections, ideally annually, are also important for early detection and long-term protection.