Seasons come and go, bringing changes in weather, mood, and even activities. Just like you might swap your wardrobe from cozy sweaters in the winter to light T-shirts in the summer, pests, including termites, respond to the seasons as well.
If you’re a homeowner, you might be wondering, “Does California have a termite season?” The short answer is yes, it does. Termites, those tiny wood-eating insects, don’t disappear year-round, but they do have a time when they’re most active and destructive.
In this blog, we’ll discuss the ins and outs of termite season and what you should know as a California resident.
What Is Termite Season?
Before getting into the details of California termites, let’s first help you understand what “termite season” means. Termite season typically refers to the period when termites are most active, particularly when they begin to swarm. Termites, especially subterranean and drywood termites, tend to swarm during warmer months when the temperature and humidity levels are ideal for breeding and establishing new colonies.
In California, where the weather can range from coastal fog to desert heat, termites can be active year-round, but their swarming season can vary depending on the region and species.
Does California Have a Termite Season?
So, does California have a termite season? The answer is yes, but it’s not as simple as a fixed calendar date. In California, termites are active throughout the year, but there are specific times when they are more visible and destructive, usually between September and November. However, the timing can vary depending on the type of termite and where in the state you are located.
Peak Swarming Times
In most areas, especially Southern California, termite activity spikes in early spring and early fall. These are prime swarming seasons for many termite species. During these times, swarming termites leave their colonies to find new locations to settle and breed. If you start noticing discarded wings near your windows or doors, it could mean termites are swarming near your home.
Warm Weather Equals More Activity
California’s warm climate means that termites, particularly subterranean termites and drywood termites, can remain active year-round. While they might not always be swarming, they continue to feed and build their colonies, which can still lead to significant termite damage if left unchecked.
How to Identify Termite Infestations
Termites are sneaky and can cause significant damage before you even know they’re there. However, there are certain signs you can watch out for that may indicate a termite infestation is underway.
Termite Swarms
Seeing a group of winged insects around your home or near windows is a red flag. These are swarming termites searching for a new place to colonize. Keep an eye out for discarded wings as well.
Mud Tubes
If you spot small mud tubes near your home’s foundation, it’s likely the work of subterranean termites. These tubes provide termites with moisture and a safe path to travel between their nest and their food source.
Termite Droppings
Also known as frass, termite droppings can look like small pellets or sawdust. If you find these in or around your home, particularly near wooden structures, it’s time to take action.
Damaged Wood
Termite-infested wood may appear hollowed out or weakened. Tapping on wood and hearing a hollow sound is a strong indicator of termite damage.
By the time you notice these signs, significant damage may already have occurred. That’s why scheduling regular inspections and pest control services is essential for prevention.
How to Protect Your Home During Termite Season in California
Given the potential for termites to cause serious damage to homes, it’s important to take preventive measures, especially during termite season. Here are a few tips to help you safeguard your home:
Remove Moisture Sources
Since termites are attracted to moisture, repairing any leaks and keeping areas around your foundation dry can help. Proper drainage and well-maintained gutters are key.
Seal Cracks and Gaps
Termites can enter your home through even the tiniest of gaps. Inspect the exterior of your home for cracks in the foundation or gaps around windows and doors, and seal them up.
Inspect Wooden Structures
Regularly check your home’s wooden structures for signs of damage. Look for frass, hollow wood, or visible termite tunnels. The sooner you spot an issue, the quicker you can address it.
Schedule Professional Inspections
Working with pest management professionals can make all the difference. An experienced pest control specialist can spot termites early and recommend effective treatment options.
Dealing With Termites in Fresno, CA
Termite infestations can be overwhelming, but with the help of a trusted pest control company, you can tackle the problem before it gets worse. If you’re looking for termite control in Fresno, CA, or one of the surrounding areas, Dustin Pest Control can come to your aid. Our team of experts understands the specific challenges posed by California termites and offers comprehensive solutions to protect your home.
Whether you’re dealing with subterranean termites, drywood termites, or other types of termites, we provide thorough inspections, treatments, and preventative measures to keep your property safe year-round.
Take Action Before Termites Do
So, does California have a termite season? Ultimately, it’s important to know that California termites are a year-round concern. However, with the right knowledge and preventative measures, you can safeguard your property from the costly damage termites can cause.
Living in California has its perks — sunshine, beaches, and beautiful weather. But along with that comes the responsibility of protecting your home from California termites. Now that you understand when termites are worst in California, it’s time to take charge. Don’t let termites cause costly damage to your home.
If you suspect a termite problem or just want to prevent one, now is the perfect time to schedule an inspection with Dustin Pest Control. Our professional termite control services in Central Valley can help you stay ahead of any issues.
Is your home also dealing with other pests, like fleas in California? We can help with that, too. Call us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward protecting your home!