Central Florida pest control specialists are warning Orlando homeowners about two wood-destroying threats swarming simultaneously this spring: termites and carpenter ants.
While termite awareness peaks each spring as swarmers emerge across the region, Florida carpenter ants often escape attention despite causing comparable structural damage. Both pests become highly active between late February and early summer, making spring the critical window for prevention.
The distinction between these insects matters significantly for treatment. Termites consume wood as their food source, tunneling through structural components while leaving behind mud tubes and hollow damage. Carpenter ants tunnel through wood to create nesting galleries, but do not eat the material—instead, pushing sawdust-like debris called frass out of smooth exit holes.
Physical differences help with identification. Termite swarmers have straight antennae, uniform wings of equal length, and thick waists. Carpenter ant swarmers display bent antennae, wings of unequal length, and pinched waists. Florida carpenter ants also feature distinctive coloring: rusty orange heads with black abdomens.
Both pests prefer moisture-damaged wood, making leak repairs and ventilation improvements essential prevention steps. However, carpenter ant colonies present a unique long-term threat—queens can survive up to 25 years, allowing untreated infestations to cause damage for decades.
Orlando homeowners who spotted termite swarmers in recent weeks should also inspect for carpenter ant activity. Warning signs include sawdust piles near baseboards, smooth slits in wooden surfaces, and rustling sounds within walls at night.
ABC Home & Commercial Services recommends a professional inspection for properties showing signs of either pest. The company’s termite control services address subterranean and drywood termite infestations, while comprehensive treatment plans eliminate carpenter ant colonies throughout the structure.
Property owners seeking an Orlando exterminator can schedule inspections to identify both threats before spring populations peak. Early intervention prevents the costly repairs that accompany established infestations.
Content distributed by national digital marketing agency ASTOUNDZ.
ABC Home & Commercial Services Orlando
+1 407 265 0665
823 East Colonial Drive
Orlando
Florida
32803
United States
