In Louisiana, termites are a year-round problem. Among them, Formosan termites do the most damage. Their huge colonies and fast feeding make them a bigger threat than native subterranean termites.
Spotting early signs is the best way to protect your home before serious damage starts. From Baton Rouge to New Orleans, many people mistake early termite signs for water damage or normal wood aging. Knowing what to look for can save thousands in repairs and keep your home’s foundation safe.
In this guide, you’ll learn the common signs of a Formosan termite infestation, how they differ from other termites, and the best termite control options in Louisiana.
Key Takeaways
- Formosan termites cause more severe damage than native subterranean termites because their colonies are much larger.
- Common signs include swarmers, discarded wings, mud tubes, and damaged wood.
- Louisiana’s humid climate makes homes in Baton Rouge, New Orleans, and nearby areas highly vulnerable to Formosan termites.
- Professional termite control from LaJaunie’s offers long-term protection with bait systems and barrier treatments.
What Makes Formosan Termites Different
Many people call Formosan subterranean termites (Coptotermes formosanus) ‘super termites’ because their colonies are massive and they feed aggressively. One large colony can reach millions of termites and chew through wood much faster than native subterranean termites.
Unlike drywood termites, which live inside wood, Formosan termites build carton nests and mud tubes to stay moist. These above-ground nests help them spread quickly through a home. Louisiana’s humid climate, especially in Thibodaux and Houma, creates ideal conditions for Formosan colonies.
You can spot Formosan termite soldiers by their yellowish-brown heads and strong jaws. They defend the colony aggressively, which makes them stand out from other castes. If you see winged reproductives (alates) around lights or windows in termite season, new colonies may be forming nearby.
Early Formosan Termite Signs To Watch For
One of the most common signs is the sudden appearance of termite swarmers. Swarmer flights often happen in late spring and early summer, especially after rain. You may find piles of discarded wings on windowsills or counters; another clear sign of termite activity.
Another key sign is mud tubes (also called shelter tubes). Subterranean termites use these tunnels to travel from the soil to wood without drying out. Mud tubes on your foundation, in crawl spaces, or on walls are a strong warning of an active infestation.
Damaged wood is another giveaway. Termite damage can look like water damage. Wood may sound hollow when tapped or show honeycomb-like patterns inside. In severe cases, termites can weaken framing and floors, which puts your home at risk.
How To Tell Formosan Termites From Other Species
Louisiana also has drywood termites and native subterranean termites, but Formosan termites are usually more aggressive and widespread. Native subterranean termites have smaller colonies and cause slower damage.
Drywood termites leave small piles of frass (droppings) near infested wood. Formosans, by contrast, make mud shelter tubes. Formosan termites swarm at night and gather around lights. Some other species swarm in daylight.
If you see alates with long wings stacked neatly over each other, that points to Formosan termite swarming. Understanding these differences can help homeowners know when to call for a professional termite inspection before the infestation spreads further.
Why Louisiana Homes Are Especially Vulnerable
Louisiana’s warm, humid climate and abundant wood make it one of the most termite-prone states. Wooden structures, mulch in landscaping, and nearby trees create easy targets for Formosan colonies.
Cities like New Orleans and Baton Rouge often rank among the highest for termite activity in the U.S. Crawl spaces and poorly sealed foundations give termites easy access. Once inside, they feed on cellulose in wood, paper, and even drywall.
Because Formosan termites can build above-ground carton nests, they don’t always need soil contact. That makes them harder to eliminate without professional termite treatment.
Professional Termite Control Options In Louisiana
DIY termite control rarely works on Formosan termites because their colonies are enormous and their nests are hard to reach. Pest control companies use advanced bait systems and liquid treatments to eliminate termite colonies.
At LaJaunie’s Pest Control, we protect Louisiana homeowners with proven termite control. We install bait systems like the Trelona® Advanced Termite Bait System. Workers carry bait back to the colony to spread it.
We also apply liquid trench treatments that create a barrier around your foundation to stop termites before they enter.
Your Next Step for Termite Protection in Louisiana
Formosan termites spread quickly in Louisiana’s warm, humid climate, and waiting too long only gives them more time to damage your home. Protecting your property starts with a thorough inspection and the right treatment plan.
LaJaunie’s Pest Control serves Baton Rouge, New Orleans, Thibodaux, and surrounding areas with local expertise and proven termite protection.
Ready to take action? Contact us today to schedule your inspection and stop termites before they spread further.
FAQs
When do Formosan termites swarm in Louisiana?
Formosan termites swarm in late spring and early summer, often after heavy rain. At night, they gather around lights, which makes them easier to spot.
How do I know if I have Formosan termites or another termite species?
Formosan termites swarm at night, build carton nests, and make long mud tubes. Drywood termites leave droppings, and native subterranean termites usually cause slower damage.
Can I get rid of Formosan termites myself?
No. Because Formosan colonies are large and aggressive, DIY methods rarely work. Professional termite control with bait systems and barrier treatments is the safest and most effective option.
