For the uninitiated, it feels like being trapped in a Hitchcock movie.
The sun goes down. There’s an audible beating of wings and suddenly you’re engulfed. Nothing is safe—your kitchen counters, sheets, not even your clothing, hair or skin. But, the never-ending stream of terrifying winged invaders filling your home aren’t birds, they’re Formosan termites.
LSU AgCenter entomologist Gregg Henderson says the number of Formosan termites showing up in sentinel traps is growing in our area.
Henderson reports the average number of winged termites per trap in 2009 was 32. Last year, the average number shot up to 596. Though it will be June before he can be sure, based upon May 13’s catch, this year could be the biggest flight ever.
“Every light post along Staring Lane in Baton Rouge had Formosan termites swarming around them [in 2014],” Henderson says. “The numbers were small; but, in five years, I expect those numbers to be much higher.”
Formosans typically swarm from the end of April through June. In 2015, Henderson says the Capital City had its first big flight on May 13. Baton Rougeans can expect small flights nearly every day and major flights every 7 to 10 days through the end of May. Sometimes, there are major flights in June. Fortunately, Henderson predicts we will get a reprieve this year.
However, Baton Rouge homeowners should take those numbers seriously. In the Greater New Orleans region, Formosans are responsible for more than $300 million in losses every year.
A key factor in termite population growth is a readily available food source based on cellulose, which is the most abundant organic matter on earth although few animals can digest it.
All termite species infest living trees and prefer swamp maples, red oaks and pecans, he says. Pine trees are the least preferred. It is from those trees that the pests launch their home invasions. Formosan termites have bigger colonies, though, and have the ability to digest more material, Henderson says.
Chemicals are effective in preventing and controlling termites if they get into a home. But it takes pest control professional to do the job effectively and carefully monitor a home to detect the presence of termites before they cause widespread damage. Even with a contract, Henderson encourages homeowners check their houses regularly.
If you’d like a more hospitable—and cuter—critter in your home, Capital Area Animal Welfare Society has many adorable adoptable animals including:
Creature Feature
Farley is a black medium-haired kitten. This curious little fellow is a very playful little boy who does enjoy human attention.
Quigley is a one-and-a-half-year-old terrier mix. Running, jumping and playing are just a few of his favorite things. This little guy is best suited for a moderate to high-energy family.
Miss Toot is a 7-year-old calico/tabby mix. She likes to nap and play fetch. While sweet and lovable, Miss Toot is also somewhat shy because she has been raised in a small home with one person and no other pets.
Ralphie is a 2-year-old border collie/terrier mix. This happy fellow is a fast learner and knows a few commands such as sit and shake. He gets along well with other dogs and loves to run around playing keep-away with all the toys. He would be best suited to a family with moderate to high energy who can give him daily walks and playtime.
Oakley is confident, energetic red heeler mix. Oakley would love to be with someone who is just as active as she is. This outgoing girl is best suited to a home with high to moderate energy.
Heidi is a 5-year-old Siamese mix. This quiet girl is a little shy at first but warms up to new acquaintances eventually. She likes to relax on the bed and be petted softly. She is fairly independent and gets along with other cats.
All these pets have been spayed/neutered, vaccinated, heartworm tested and microchipped. Many other adoptable dogs, puppies, cats and kittens are available through Capital Area Animal Welfare Society.
