A termite infestation can cause major property damage, which is why prevention is an essential part of homeownership. Since each type of termite has unique behaviors, understanding them can help with termite control. Here are a few of the common types and species found in Hawaii.

Which Termites Are Found in Hawaii?

1. Drywood

Indo-Malaysian, western, and West Indian drywood termites are all found on Oahu, but only the West Indian species is found on the other islands of Hawaii. It’s also the only species that swarms at night, with the other two swarming during the day. As their name suggests, drywood termites prefer to eat and build their nests in dead, dry wood, including wood used for construction. West Indian and Indo-Malaysian varieties have black heads and pale bodies, while western drywood termites are black to dark brown all over.

2. Dampwood

Pacific dampwood termites are the largest in Hawaii, with soldiers reaching over an inch in length. They prefer wood that is frequently or constantly wet, so you’re most likely to find them where you have a plumbing leak, damaged rain gutter, or a hole in the roof. They swarm in the late evening or at night and are mainly found on Maui.

3. Tree

Tree termites reside in live trees, so they rarely ever damage structures. If you see one or even spot them swarming, you don’t need to call for termite control. Only schedule termite treatment for these species if you find their tunnels in your home. Hawaii has two types: lowland and forest. Both have distinctive dark markings on a pale or tan abdomen and swarm at night.

4. Subterranean

Formosan subterranean termites can be the most difficult to spot because they travel underground, making termite control harder. They're small with dark jaws, brown heads, and pale bodies and swarm at night. Usually, the only evidence of their activity is their mud tubes. They build these structures to protect themselves when they have to travel along exposed surfaces. You may find long trails of hard, dried mud crossing walls, stone, pavement, floors, and other hard surfaces. Formosan termites may enter your home via a mud tube or through cracks in the foundation.

For professional termite control on the island of Oahu, choose Pest Tech Hawaii. Based in Honolulu, this locally owned business offers quick response times to all pest removal calls, and their technicians boast more than 100 years of combined experience. For a free quote, call (808) 784-2847 or reach out online.