The termite colony has three primary castes: workers, soldiers, and the reproductives (kings, queens, and secondaries). The workers are creamy white and seldom seen unless a termite tube or infested wood is broken open. Soldiers have elongated yellowish heads with large jaws and are about the same size as the adult worker, about a quarter inch. The kings and queens are dark-brown or black and about 3/8 to 1/2 inch long. They have two pairs of translucent wings of equal length, which break off shortly after swarming.

Termites are small insects that feed on cellulose-based materials such as wood and paper. In Melbourne, common termite species include subterranean termites, dampwood termites, and drywood termites. Termites are a concern for homeowners because they can cause significant damage to wooden structures, leading to costly repairs and structural issues.

Signs of a termite infestation include the presence of mud tubes along foundation walls or wooden structures, visible termite swarmers (winged adults), discarded termite wings, hollow-sounding wood, and damaged or crumbling wood. Additionally, if you notice sawdust-like frass or termite droppings around your home, it may indicate termite activity.

It's recommended to schedule termite inspections for your home at least once a year, preferably during the spring or early summer months when termite activity is highest. Additionally, if you live in an area with a history of termite infestations or have experienced termite activity in the past, more frequent inspections may be necessary.

During a termite inspection, a qualified pest control technician will visually inspect your property for signs of termite activity, including checking for mud tubes, termite damage, and conducive conditions such as moisture problems. In some cases, specialized equipment such as moisture meters and thermal imaging cameras may be used to detect hidden termite activity.

The cost of a termite inspection can vary depending on factors such as the size of the property, the location, and the level of termite activity. Typically, termite inspections are relatively affordable and may even be offered for free by some pest control companies as part of a package deal or promotional offer.

The best way to prevent termites and the damage they cause is a professional proactive baiting system that will catch them as early as possible. There are no successful DIY termite treatments and learning that can cost you.