Do You Have Formosan Termites? Austin, TX

Formosan termites are a relatively new threat to Austin homes and trees. Unlike other termites, they feed on living trees and can destroy huge areas of forestry. It is believed that Formosan termites were introduced into Central Texas by non-Texas native timbers, mulch and logs.
Formosan termites look a lot like ants with wings. They fly and swarm for the first couple of weeks in June. You may see them swarming around street lights in your neighborhood. When the termites quit swarming, they shed their wings and go into the ground or wood structures to lay their eggs. A Formosan termite nest can span 300 square feet and they can eat through wood at an astounding rate. This has earned them the nickname of “super termite”.
If you suspect Formosan termites in your home, you can trap them with some sticky paper, such as in a roach bait box. Take them to an insect control company to have them identified. If you suspect that they have infested a tree, however, then you should call a tree doctor, or Arborist to take care of the problem.
Arborists are trained in taking care of infestations. They will be able to determine the extent of the nest. If only a few branches need to be removed and disposed of to prevent spreading, then they will be able to let you know and your tree could be saved. If the entire tree is affected and cannot be saved, then you need an Arborist to properly remove the tree and take it to a safe area for extermination. Do not make the mistake of cutting down the tree yourself or hiring a regular tree removal company to do the job. If you do, then you only risk spreading the Formosan termites to other areas of your property. You can not only infest other trees, but also your home and the homes and trees of your neighbors.
An Arborist will survey the entire area surrounding the spot where the Formosan termites were found. You need this service to ensure that there are no other colonies lurking nearby. Formosan termites are mostly subterranean creatures. You may see them coming up from the ground through cracks in concrete, around wet areas of your yard such as air conditioning units or gutter drainage, but you can also have them on your roof or pretty much any area that gets wet.
Large colonies will sometimes build above ground structures that look like they are made out of cardboard. If you see one of these, your trees and home need to be immediately protected. Remember not to call a regular tree trimmer or tree removal service. To find an Arborist, search tree trimming Austin and be sure that you are calling in the best.

About the Author: Andrew Johnson is the owner of Central Texas Tree Care, a leading tree service provider in Central Texas (Travis County and surrounding areas) offering services such as pruning and removals, cabling and bracing as well as arborist reports, diagnostics, pest management, fertilization and Austin tree service trusts.