Formosan subterranean termites may have an exotic-sounding name, but they’re an all too real threat in South Carolina. Here’s a closer look at these tiny pests and why they make effective Hilton Head termite control so essential.
History of Formosan Subterranean Termites
The Formosan subterranean termite is the most far-reaching member of the genus Coptotermes, which includes the greatest overall number of termite species. As the name suggests, this termite was first identified in Taiwan during the early 20th century.
While the species wasn’t described until the 1900s, there is evidence of the termite being transported from China to Japan before 1600, and from there to Hawaii during the late 1800s. The first reports of Formosan subterranean termites in Hilton Head and other parts of South Carolina occurred during the 1960s.
Why Are Formosan Subterranean Termites So Hard to Eliminate?
Formosan subterranean termites can forage underground to depths of 300 feet. In contrast to native subterranean termite colonies that number hundreds of thousands of members, a single Formosan subterranean termite colony can include several million members.
These numbers make Formosan subterranean termites a more serious threat to homes. Each individual insect doesn’t consume more than any other termite species, but the concentration of colony members means they can cause more damage in a shorter span of time.
Island Pest Control: Your Solution for Hilton Head Termite Control
Every one of our technicians is a graduate of the Pest Control Technology Program of Purdue University, giving them a greater level of knowledge and experience than technicians at other companies. Contact us today to schedule a free 58-point pest analysis of your home, inside and out.
