A New Kind of Termite Is Moving Into Southern California
For decades, most termite problems in San Diego and the surrounding areas involved Western drywood or native subterranean termites. But now, a far more destructive species has arrived, the Formosan subterranean termite (Coptotermes formosanus).
Known as the “super termite” for its massive colonies and aggressive feeding habits, the Formosan termite is quickly becoming a major structural threat across Southern California. Early detection and professional prevention are now essential for homeowners who want to avoid thousands of dollars in repairs.
What Are Formosan Subterranean Termites?
Formosan subterranean termites are an invasive species originally from East Asia. They were first detected in the continental U.S. in the 1960s and have since spread from the Gulf Coast to California’s coastal counties, including San Diego, Orange, and Los Angeles.
Unlike native subterranean termites, Formosans form super-colonies that can contain millions of termites—and they can consume wood faster than any other known termite species.
Key traits:
- Cream-colored workers, about ⅛ inch long.
- Soldiers with large oval heads and curved mandibles.
- Swarmers (winged reproductives) with yellowish-brown bodies and translucent wings.
- Tend to build mud nests inside walls or attics, not just in soil.
💡 Fun Fact: A single Formosan colony can consume nearly a pound of wood per day, making it one of the most destructive pests in the U.S.
Why They’re Becoming More Common in Southern California
Climate Advantage
Southern California’s mild winters and consistent humidity provide ideal breeding conditions. Warm nights and irrigated landscapes make survival easy, even in coastal and inland zones.
Urban Expansion
As construction increases, so does the availability of wood-to-soil contact and irrigation systems—two factors that attract subterranean termites.
Transportation & Movement
Infestations often spread through shipping materials, landscaping timbers, and infested wooden structures moved from high-risk regions like the Gulf Coast and Hawaii.
Lack of Awareness
Because Formosans were once considered a “Southern pest,” many California homeowners and even contractors still underestimate their presence—leading to delayed detection.
How to Identify a Formosan Termite Infestation
Mud Tubes and Nests
Look for thick, irregular mud tubes along foundations, walls, and ceilings. Formosan termites often build carton nests (dense mud structures) inside walls or attics—something native termites rarely do.
Swarmers in Late Spring or Early Summer
Swarmers emerge on humid evenings, often attracted to porch lights or windows. Their wings are longer and more translucent than native subterranean species.
Hollow or Sagging Wood
Because Formosan termites hollow out wood from the inside, you may notice soft floors, warped door frames, or bubbling paint—often mistaken for water damage.
Clicking Sounds in Walls
Large colonies can produce faint “clicking” or “tapping” noises as soldiers bang their heads to warn others of danger.
How Much Damage Can They Cause?
Formosan subterranean termites can cause severe structural damage in less than six months, depending on colony size and access points.
They feed not only on wood but also on paper, insulation, and even thin plastic coatings around electrical wires.
| Damage Type | Estimated Repair Cost in San Diego |
| Minor wood trim or framing repair | $800 – $1,500 |
| Structural beam or joist replacement | $3,000 – $8,000 |
| Severe foundation or wall reconstruction | $10,000 – $20,000+ |
Because these subterranean termites can establish satellite colonies inside walls and attics, untreated infestations often recur—even after partial treatment.
Prevention Tips: How to Keep Formosan Termites Out of Your Home
1. Eliminate Moisture Sources
Fix leaky sprinklers, plumbing, and downspouts. Proper drainage around the home reduces soil humidity that attracts colonies.
2. Reduce Wood-to-Soil Contact
Raise decks, fences, and siding. Use concrete or metal supports where possible to block direct access routes.
3. Seal Foundation Cracks
Termites can enter through gaps as small as 1/32 inch. Seal cracks, vents, and utility openings with silicone caulk or mesh screens.
4. Store Wood and Mulch Away from the Home
Keep firewood at least 20 feet from structures and use mulch sparingly near foundations.
5. Schedule Annual Termite Inspections
Early detection is your best defense. Talos Pest Control offers detailed inspections using moisture meters and thermal imaging to locate colonies before visible damage occurs.
👉 Book your termite inspection today.
Treatment Options for Formosan Termites
Because Formosan colonies can be massive and deeply embedded, DIY solutions are ineffective. Professional treatment is the only proven method for long-term control.
Soil Barrier Treatments
Liquid termiticides create an invisible barrier around the foundation that blocks and kills termites before they enter.
Baiting Systems
In-ground bait stations draw termites away from structures and spread a slow-acting growth inhibitor throughout the colony.
Structural Foaming and Spot Treatments
For active infestations inside walls or attics, localized foam treatments penetrate voids without requiring tenting.
Fumigation (for Heavy Infestations)
If multiple colonies are established inside walls or upper framing, fumigation ensures full-structure elimination.
Talos Pest Control’s technicians assess each property individually and design a custom Formosan termite control plan that addresses both the current infestation and long-term prevention.
Why Choose Talos Pest Control
- 🧠 Local Expertise: Our San Diego-based team understands the conditions that allow Formosan termites to thrive.
- 🌱 Eco-Friendly Options: Choose from low-toxicity, family-safe treatments.
- 🔍 Advanced Detection Tools: We use thermal imaging and acoustic sensors for hidden colony detection.
- 💪 Satisfaction Guarantee: Every treatment plan comes with a full warranty and ongoing monitoring.
Protect your home before the “super termite” strikes.
