If you’re a homeowner in Brevard County—whether you’re sipping coffee in Cocoa Beach or strolling through Merritt Island’s oak-lined streets—you’ve probably asked yourself, “when is termite season in Florida?” The answer is simple… but not so comforting.
Florida’s termite season never truly ends. Thanks to our state’s warm, humid weather, termites are active year-round, making vigilance a must.
But don’t panic. Understanding termite activity and staying ahead of these pests can save your home (and your wallet) from serious damage.
Here’s everything homeowners in Brevard County (from Melbourne to Satellite Beach) need to know.
What is Termite Season?
Termite season refers to the time when termites are most visible and active, usually during their swarming phase. Termite swarms occur when winged termites, called alates, leave their colony to reproduce and establish new nests.
Even though peak swarming seasons exist, termites in Florida have one advantage over their northern counterparts: year-round activity. Florida’s heat and humidity keep termites hungry and on the move, whether you’re in Palm Bay, Cocoa, or Kissimmee.
Florida’s termite trouble stems from its climate and ecosystem. Our state is a termite paradise because of its:
- Warm Temperatures: Termites thrive in heat. Warmer weather means faster metabolism, more feeding, and increased reproduction.
- High Humidity: Termites depend on moisture for survival. Florida provides an endless supply of damp conditions, especially in areas like Cocoa Beach and Titusville.
- Abundant Food Sources: Termites feed on cellulose, a component of wood. With countless wooden structures, trees, and stumps, Brevard County is like an all-you-can-eat buffet.
- Tropical Species: Florida is one of the few states where invasive species like the Formosan and Asian subterranean termites are widespread.
Termite Season by Species
The state is home to over 20 termite species, with drywood termites, dampwood termites, and subterranean termites being the main culprits causing structural damage.
Formosan Subterranean Termites
Formosan subterranean termites establish underground colonies in moisture-rich soil to raise their young. But they don’t stop there!
To reach the wood in your home, subterranean termites will construct connecting mud tubes to reach above-ground food sources, whether a nearby tree or your home’s foundation. They generally swarm from late April to early May.
Drywood Termites
These pests aren’t the only wood-devouring invaders in the state! Florida is also home to drywood and dampwood termites, two species with their own unique habits and habitats.
Drywood termites prefer nesting directly in the wood they infest, making detection and control difficult, especially in hard-to-reach areas. You won’t see intricate mud tubes during an infestation; instead, you may spot frass or termite droppings near your floorboards or countertops.
Generally, drywood termites swarm in the summer and early fall (July through October).
Dampwood Termites
On the East Coast, Florida is one of the only states with a substantial number of dampwood termites. These pests thrive in environments with ample moisture, infesting decaying trees or waterlogged wood.
How to Recognize Termite Activity
Spotting termite activity before it gets out of hand is crucial. Here’s what to look for in your Brevard County home:
- Mud Tubes: Subterranean termites build pencil-sized mud tunnels for protection as they forage between their colony and wood sources.
- Discarded Wings: After swarming, termites shed their wings. Piles near windowsills or doorframes are a telltale sign.
- Frass (Droppings): Drywood termites leave behind small, wood-colored pellets around their nests.
- Hollow Wood: Knock on wooden surfaces. If they sound hollow, termites might have already chewed through.
- Warped Doors or Windows: Moisture from termite activity can cause structural wood to swell, making doors and windows difficult to close.
Termite Prevention and Control
Prevention is always better than cure when it comes to termites. Investing in preventive measures can save you time, money, and stress in the long run. Here are the top strategies for termite prevention in Florida:
- Moisture Control: Fix leaks, clean gutters regularly, and ensure proper drainage around your home.
- Reduce Wood-to-Ground Contact: Keep firewood, tree stumps, and other lumber away from your home’s foundation.
- Seal Cracks: Close gaps or cracks in your home’s foundation to block termite entry.
- Regular inspections: Even if your home looks fine, have it inspected annually , paying close attention to areas prone to termite activity, like crawl spaces, basements, and attics.
- Treatment Options: Talk to pest control experts like us at Orange Pest Control about protective treatments like soil treatments and baiting systems.
Defend Your Home Today
Discovering termites can be stressful and frustrating, especially with the looming thought of expensive fixes. If you’re in Florida and need help, contact Orange Pest Control. We’re here to take the stress off your shoulders!
Don’t wait until termites have caused thousands of dollars in damage. Whether you’re in Indialantic, St. Cloud, or Titusville, we’ve got your back. Orange Pest Control specializes in protecting Brevard County homes from these tiny terrors.
Schedule your inspection today!
Did You Know?
With 20 established termite species, Florida doesn’t just have the highest number of termite species in the continental U.S.—it’s also facing a growing population of invasive species like Formosan subterranean termites. These termites are capable of creating massive colonies with millions of members.
FAQ
When is termite season in Florida?
Termite season in Florida runs year-round due to the state’s warm and humid climate. Swarming periods typically occur in spring and summer, but termites are active throughout the year.
Why are termites so common in Brevard County?
Brevard County’s tropical conditions, abundant moisture, and wealth of wooden structures make it an ideal habitat for termites, especially subterranean species.
How can I tell if I have termites in my home?
Look for mud tubes, discarded wings, wood droppings (frass), or hollow-sounding wood. If you’re unsure, contact a professional for an inspection.
What type of termites are most destructive in Florida?
The Formosan subterranean termite is the most destructive species in Florida. Other problematic species include the Asian subterranean termite and drywood termites.
Can termites weaken my home’s foundation?
Yes. Subterranean termites build colonies underground and can attack foundational wood, leading to significant structural issues if left untreated.