Dampwood Termite

Dampwood termites are named for being found in moist or decaying wood. They are the largest termite found in this area, up to ¾” long. Winged swarmer termites can reach 1″ long. Along with their larger size, dampwoods can have light amber to brown coloration. Swarmer termites have the darkest color of any other member. An interesting fact about dampwoods is that they have no worker caste. Immature termites perform the duties normally done by workers. In nature they live in old tree stumps or logs, until they swarm. Typically with around 50 members to a swarm, smaller than other swarms of termites, they can be seen around lights at night. If swarmer termites find a suitable habitat in your house, they will set up shop there. Leaking plumbing, inadequate ventilation, or earth to wood contacts create moisture and decay conditions which are ideal for dampwood termites. They will eat across the grain of the wood, similar to drywood termites. Collections of termite fecal pellets, called frass, are a good indication of an infestation. Unfortunately, under moist conditions sometimes the fecal pellets will stay in the wood going unnoticed. These are the least common termites found infesting homes.