What are termites?

Termites are social insects that live together in large colonies made up of castes and are found living and breeding throughout most of the United States. Termite colonies can become quite large, sometimes having hundreds, thousands, or even millions of members present. Termites prefer to feed on decaying items made of cellulose. They commonly feed on old roots, tree stumps, firewood, landscaping ties, mulch, structural wood, paper, and other items containing cellulose. Termite workers make up the bulk of each colony and have ant-like soft, white bodies. The soldiers guard the colony using their strong jaws. Queens and kings, or “reproductive” members of the colony are the largest in size and can grow over one inch in length. These are the only members of the colony with wings.