Conehead Termite

Category: Termites

Scientific Name: Nasutitermes Corniger

 

Identification:

Color: Dark brown (swarmer) or dark head with cream body (soldier)

Size: 12-15 mm long (swarmer) or 3-5 mm long (soldier)

Region: Found throughout tropical regions of the world. In the United States, it’s found in Florida.

Important Considerations:

  • Like all termite species, conehead termites eat wood and can be responsible for significant structural damage to homes and buildings.
  • Conehead termites wille at almost any kind of wood — hard and soft. They prefer wood that is wet or decayed, but will also feed on dry wood.
  • If you disturb a conehead termite’s nest, they will secrete a sticky, foul-smelling clear liquid.

 

Where to Find Them on Your Property?

Because they aren’t picky, conehead termites can damage nearly any kind of wood within their reach. They will feed on natural wood sources such as twigs, branches, stumps, and trees. They will also eat any untreated man-made wooden structure including fences, framing, plywood, artwork, bamboo, tool handles, pallets, and wooden ladders.