Utilising Termite Head-Banging for Termite Management
Termites are not really known as intelligent creatures. Many of you may be surprised to know that these tiny pests can communicate with each other. However, their mode of communication may seem to be rather bizarre. It has been observed that several termite species around the world communicate by banging their heads onto the ground or tunnel walls. Often times, this seemingly strange mode of communication is mutual, and effective for the transmission of complex information. The good news is that the sound created by this head banging can be utilised for termite management.
It has been found that the head banging is done only by the soldiers in the termite colony. This is done mostly to sound an alarm or send a signal. As termites don’t have ears, they use their legs that are equipped with special sensory organs, to detect the vibrations. Researchers feel that the signals are intended to send warning message to the colony. It is believed that this behaviour is to ensure protection from predators, particularly ants. Also, certain species of termites can grow fungus for feeding the colony. When a large amount of fungi is produced, many different predators are attracted to it.
It has been discovered in recent studies that head banging rates tend to vary significantly across different species of termites. Making use of sound capturing devices and high-speed cameras, researchers have found that soldier termites belonging to some species can bang their heads about 11 times per second. The vibration signal sent through the ground is picked up by other termites and relayed back and forth between them. Under normal circumstances, similar signals cannot be heard beyond a distance of 40 centimetres. However, teamwork within the termite colony does the trick here.
The findings of the studies conducted on this strange characteristic trait of termites can be extremely useful in our termite control efforts. By listening to these vibrations, it is possible to correctly identify the areas that are infested with termites.
If you are a careful listener worried about how to control termites, you may be able to hear the noise caused by large termite infestations. When termites travel through wood in search of food, you may hear a buzzing, clicking, rustling, or rattling sound. Often times, termites create tunnels in ceilings, under floors, or through beams. These activities create a hollow space, and a distinct noise can be heard when infested wood is tapped. It is also possible to locate termite infested areas using a standard physician’s stethoscope. If you hear any type of termite sound around your home or office, waste no time to call an experienced termite treatment expert.
If you are looking for complete elimination of termites without causing any damage to the environment, Exterra is undoubtedly your best option. Our advanced termite baiting systems are non-toxic, and turn your home into a fortress against termite damage.
