Does California Have a Termite Season?

California has always had a serious termite problem. The state’s abundant resources of wood, the high humidity and the generally warm climate all combine to make it the perfect environment for termites. The 23 different species of termites that can be found throughout the state mean that it has one of the highest termite populations in the U.S. Termites can be useful in many ways. They speed up the decomposition of fallen trees, dead wood and wooden debris all of which add nutrients to the soil. They are a food source for various predators which in turn play important roles in the ecology of the state. But when they get into human habitations and other structures, they cause serious damage to the extent that a building can become unsafe to occupy. It is estimated that termites cause about $5 billion worth of damage to homes and other buildings every year.

Termite Seasons

Termites live and move in swarms which range in size from small to massive. Generally speaking, swarming occurs in warm weather after it rains. However, different termite species tend to swarm more frequently at different times of the year and in different locations.

1. Drywood Termites: These typically swarm at night in June and July in the Northern parts of the state. In Southern California, they swarm during the day, most often between September and November. These are the peak periods for drywood termite treatment.
2. Dampwood Termites: Pacific dampwood termites swarm after sunset from August to October. Nevada termites swarm at the same time of the day but in the springtime in the Northern part of the state and in summer and early autumn in the coastal regions.
3. Subterranean Termites: These termites swarm between July and September. The desert sub-species tend to swarm at night while the arid land sub-species swarm during the day. The Formosan type swarm from May to July and the Western subterranean sub-species swarm during the day in fall, winter and early spring.

Also Read: A Close Look at Termite Inspections & Procedures

There is no specific termite season and more importantly, there is no specific season for treatment options like drywood termite treatment, termite treatment without tenting, local termite treatment and other actions that need to be taken to keep a house safe.

Do-it-yourself termite treatments are never truly effective. This is especially true for California where the different termite species and the large size of infestations mean that species and infestation-specific treatments are required. In almost all cases, DIY termite control results in only partial removal. This means that the surface signs of an infestation go away, but the pests continue to cause unseen damage. Often, the continuing presence of termites becomes apparent only when the damage is extensive, resulting in massive repair bills. There is only one way to keep a home safe and that is by contacting a termite exterminator in Southern California. A professional company will find the full extent of an infestation, identify the type of termites and then use the most effective extermination method after which a homeowner can opt for termite prevention treatments to keep the house safe in the future. Ask for a free termite inspection so that you know what your termite situation is.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does California have a termite season?

No, California doesn't have a single termite season. Different termite species swarm at various times throughout the year.

2. What are the most common termite species in California?

Drywood termites and dampwood termites are common throughout the state, while subterranean termites are also a concern.

3. When do drywood termites swarm in California?

Northern California: June & July (night)

Southern California: September-November (day)

4. When do subterranean termites swarm in California?

Desert subterranean termites: July-September (night)

Arid-land subterranean termites: July-September (day)

Formosan subterranean termites: May-July

Western subterranean termites: Fall, winter, early spring (day)

5.Should I treat for termites myself?

No, DIY termite treatments are not effective in California. Different species require specific approaches.  Professional inspection and treatment are recommended.