| | Formosan subterranean termite alate or winged termite. Photo by Dr. Matt Messenger. |
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| | Formosan subterranean termite soldier. Note the teardrop-shaped head and large gland (fontanel) in the front of the head. Photo by Dr. Matt Messenger. |
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| | Typical damage by Formosan subterranean termite. Much of the wood is eaten and little soil is found in the wood. Photo by Dr. Matt Messenger. |
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Please help determine the range of the Formosan subterranean termite. Formosan subterranean termites swarm from April through mid July. They take flight to search for mates and wood in which to begin new colonies. They are golden brown and about one-half inch long with four wings of equal size and shape.
Do not move wood products from an infested area without inspecting them and being sure they are not infested. Wood in contact with the ground and areas of continuous moisture around your house are open invitations to termites.
Help us better determine the range of the Formosan subterranean termite by reporting infestations to the LSU AgCenter and by sending several winged termites (with wings) and/or soldiers (termites with large, orange-yellow heads) in for identification. Termites should be collected and placed in 100% alcohol and sent to us for identification.
Please send termites to Dr. Dennis Ring, 404 Life Sciences, Department of Entomology, LSU Agricultural Center, Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70803. Include your name, location (street address or road, city, zip code) termites were collected, parish and material or plant collected from. Contact your county agent for assistance in sending termites or for more information.
Contact: Gary Wilson (318) 323-2251, Natalie Fontenot (337) 475-8812, Dr. Dennis Ring (225) 578-2180, Charles McCown (225) 578-2180 or your county agent.