Termites
The recent rains have triggered termite swarms. We have recently seen three distinct swarms in Umstead State Park in Raleigh. Most of the swarming activity that callers are likely to see takes place outdoors, which is simply a reminder that termites are around us outdoors. It's a good reminder to all of us that if you haven't inspected your house for termites in a number of years, this might be a good time to get it done.
For those 'do-it-yourself' folks, we recommend that they look carefully for termite shelter ("mud") tubes on foundation walls and piers. They need to check the wood along the top of the foundation looking carefully for tubes and/or damage. This often means pulling back insulation to inspect.
We also let folks know of their other option, which is to get a pest control company to inspect their house. There is a lot of confusion about what pest control companies can/cannot tell potential customers. If there is no evidence of termite activity, a pest control inspector cannot tell someone that they "need" to have their house treated. On the other hand, if it's been 10+ years since the house was last treated, then the company might "suggest" a treatment as a way of protecting a major investment. Obviously, it is a matter of personal choice as to how important an individual thinks the treatment is in terms of protecting one of their most important investments.
In instances where people have termite contracts with pest control companies, some companies have a clause in their contract that allows them to require retreatment of the home after some interval (usually 5 years). This clause applies whether or not there are signs of termite activity. So, advice to the public is simple and the same as any other contract they sign - READ IT CAREFULLY.
Mosquitoes
The rains will also leave behind water sources that can produce mosquitoes. While puddles of water will dry up, the major concern will be for all of those items people may have on their property: buckets, old tires, flower pots with dishes underneath, tarps covering boats and other items, and even tree holes. Remind people to "Tip and Toss" - tip the item to drain the water and toss the items that aren't needed.
Fire Ants
Also, if you live in an area where fire ants are a problem, don't be surprised if you see mounds popping up. We've seen this same situation where dry summer conditions reduce surface activity but significant rainfall often affords the ants the opportunity to form mounds from what was previously very hardpacked soils.
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