When assisting our clients, we at The Bug Man, Inc. often encourage home and business owners to be proactive. And for no other pest than the termite can this tidbit of wisdom be more true.

Unfortunately, termites can be very difficult to spot before they’ve already done extensive damage. Often referred to as “hidden threats,” they usually don’t leave external signs.

1 There are a few things to look for outside the home. Termites rarely emerge from soil, mud tubes, or food sources through which they are tunneling. The tubes will contain small, creamy-white insects. You may see termites around dead tree stumps and rotting boards or other debris.

2 Most people only see termites inside the home when an infestation is well-established. They often see them swarm. By that time, major termite damage is inevitable without professional help from companies like The Bug Man.

3 Termites are commonly mistaken for ants when seen swarming. Flying termites have no obvious waist and straight antennae, while winged ants have narrow waists and bent antennae. Termites’ wings are equal in size and are shed soon after they leave the nest to swarm. Flying ants have two sets of wings, one larger than the other, and they usually don’t shed.

4 Regular termite inspections — especially if your home isn’t already protected with a preventative treatment of some kind — are highly recommended. Our experts can identify signs of termite activity and structural damage and customize a treatment plan for your property.

5 Be sure to choose your pest control company carefully. The Bug Man would love to add you to our list of satisfied clients throughout Arkansas. But we understand that smart consumers shop around. The EPA recommends to make sure companies offering termite treatment services are licensed, and ask to see the license. There are more tips on choosing a company in its Citizen’s Guide to Pest Control & Safety.

Call the experts at The Bug Man today at (501) 663-9464, or click here to contact us online.