When most homeowners think of termites, they imagine a slow-moving pest that quietly chews on wood over the course of years. But not all termites are created equal. One species in particular—Formosan termites
—poses a significantly greater threat than their native cousins here in Florida. They’re larger, more aggressive, and capable of inflicting serious structural damage to homes in a matter of months.
Understanding the key differences between Formosan and native subterranean termites is critical to protecting your home. At Evergreen Lawn & Pest Control, we want to ensure you’re equipped with the facts and solutions you need to stay one step ahead of this hidden menace.
The Basics: What Are Formosan Termites?
Formosan termites (Coptotermes formosanus) are a non-native, invasive species originally from East Asia. They were accidentally introduced to the southern United States, including Florida, during World War II through military shipments of wooden packing material. Since then, they’ve established a stronghold in our warm, humid climate—particularly in coastal and urban areas.
They’re a type of subterranean termite, which means they live underground and invade structures from below the surface, often through mud tubes or hidden cracks.
Size Matters—And So Does Speed
Compared to Florida’s native subterranean termites, Formosan termites are more destructive in every measurable way:
| Feature | Native Termites | Formosan Termites |
| Colony Size | Up to 500,000 | Over 1 million |
| Queen’s Egg Rate | ~1,000/day | Up to 3,000/day |
| Damage Rate | Slow to moderate | Rapid and aggressive |
| Soldiers in Colony | 2% | Up to 20% |
| Swarming Season | Spring to early summer | April to July |
Because Formosan colonies are so much larger, they require more food—and they get it fast. These termites can cause visible, structural damage in just a few months, whereas native termites typically take years to have the same impact.
Damage Potential: A Hidden Threat
Formosan termites are incredibly efficient at consuming wood and other cellulose-based materials. They’ve been known to chew through:
- Wood framing
- Hardwood floors
- Drywall and sheetrock
- Furniture
- Live trees
- Utility poles
- Even swimming pool liners
They often build carton nests—a mixture of soil, saliva, and fecal matter—inside walls or attics, which allows them to thrive above ground if moisture levels are high. These nests are a telltale sign of infestation but are often hidden until serious damage has occurred.
In fact, Formosan termites cause more than $1 billion in structural damage annually in the United States. The sheer scale of destruction makes them one of the most feared pests among builders, insurers, and homeowners alike.
Moisture: Their Secret Weapon
One major reason Formosan termites flourish in Florida is our climate. These termites depend on high humidity and moisture to survive. That’s why homes with poor drainage, roof or pipe leaks, or heavy landscaping around the foundation are especially vulnerable.
Unlike native termites, which typically require contact with the soil, Formosans can maintain aerial nests if a moisture source is available. This allows them to infest second stories and even roofs—a behavior rarely seen in native species.
Swarming Season: The Silent Alarm
Both native and Formosan termites produce winged reproductives (alates) that swarm during mating season. However, the Formosan swarming window is more concentrated and more intense, typically from April through July, with major swarms occurring around mid-May.
Swarming usually happens at dusk on warm, humid evenings—especially following rain. If you see large numbers of winged termites near lights or windows, it could signal a Formosan colony is nearby or even inside your home.
Why Insurance Won’t Save You
Perhaps the most sobering fact for homeowners is this: Termite damage is not covered by homeowners insurance. Regardless of whether your infestation is from native or Formosan termites, any structural repairs, fumigation, or replacements will be out of pocket.
This makes proactive prevention and early detection your most valuable tools.
How to Protect Your Home
The good news? With the right partner and preventative strategies, you can safeguard your home from both native and Formosan termites.
At Evergreen Lawn & Pest Control, we offer:
- Complimentary termite inspections
- Customized treatment plans using bait systems or chemical barriers
- Ongoing monitoring to catch infestations early
- Licensed, experienced technicians who understand Florida’s unique termite threats
We know what to look for, how to identify Formosan-specific signs, and how to respond with treatments tailored to your home’s unique vulnerabilities.
Don’t Wait for the Damage
Native termites may give you some time, but Formosan termites won’t. With massive colonies and rapid destruction, a small problem can become a financial nightmare if ignored.
📞 Call Evergreen Lawn & Pest Control today to schedule your FREE inspection.
🌐 Visit EvergreenPC.com to learn more about our termite protection programs.
🛡️ Trusted by Florida homeowners since 1991.
Evergreen Lawn & Pest Control
Evergreen Lawn & Pest Control offers full-service solutions for your lawn, pest, termite, and insulation needs, making us your one-stop shop for a healthy and pest-free environment. We serve Central and South Florida including Apopka, Oakland Park and surrounding Florida homes.
