Termite Baiting: The alternative termite control system

Until lately, the most popular termite control methods were the conventional barrier treatments utilizing large amounts of chemicals. These chemicals are either introduced into the soil or applied to construction materials. If you are not very comfortable with the idea of using huge amount of chemicals in your homes and in its surrounding areas, your best alternative would be the termite baiting system.

Termite baits are a fresh and different concept of termite control. In this method, little amounts of toxicants are used to knock out termite population foraging in and around the vicinity. Termite baiting system is a simple process. It is best use as a preventive measure or as an additional termite security system.

What are termite baits? Termite baits may consists of wood, paper, cardboards or other cellullosic materials. These materials are treated with slow-acting substances deadly to termites. If baits kills too quickly, accumulation of dead or sick termites surrounding the bait stations will make them avoid that station. Good bait systems are slow-acting. This enhances the chances of transfer of toxicants from one termite to its nest mates. Termite bait stations can be installed below the ground or above it.

The Termite Baiting Process. This is how termite baiting process is done. First, you need to create a solid feeding cycle between the termite colony and the bait stations. “Prebaiting” needs to be done by allowing termites to initially feed on untreated materials. Then later on, these untreated materials are replaced with treated ones. In theory, when termites finally feed on these toxicants the entire colony is eliminated because the infection is transferred from one termite to another.

Understanding Termite Behavior in Baiting. A significant characteristic of termites when dealing with baits is that they couldn’t be “attracted” to it. They are unlike ants, roaches and rodents that can be specifically lured into baits. However, because termites randomly search for food sources, they will sooner or later check at almost every area near their colony. Perhaps, the greatest challenge of termite baiting is getting termites to discover the baits. To have higher chances of bait discovery, install bait stations at regular intervals around the vicinity of the structure especially in places with suspected termite activity. When using the termite baiting system, it is critical to regularly monitor and inspect bait stations. It is also important to take into account that termites are very sensitive. They will leave an area if they are disturbed. So, to create a continuous feeding cycle between your bait stations and termite colonies, it is important to minimize disturbances.

Termite Baiting System Advantage. Although termite baiting systems are more time-consuming compared to other traditional methods of termite control, it does have one great advantage. It offers a greener or a more “environmentally-friendly” way of detecting and controlling termite infestations. You wouldn’t have to use huge amounts of chemicals that can possibly pollute soil, air and water supplies. Termite baits are best for sensitive environments like structures with cisterns or wells, sub-slab heating ducts, and other places that may prohibit soil and chemical treatments.

Dean Gallagher
Termitexpel.Com