TERMITES, also known as white ants, are one of the most dangerous pests that are capable of destroying your home from the inside.
So it's understandable for people to reach for that can of insecticide and start spraying the living daylight out of them on sight.
But why do pest control operators often advise against this? Does spraying really make the situation worse?
VERDICT:
TRUE
It's a "win a battle but lose the war" kind of situation if spraying insecticide is your weapon of choice against these "silent destroyers".
Yes, you annihilate the ones that you see, preventing them from further causing visible damage to wooden structures in that area.
But here's the catch; the colony that they came from remains and only by killing the whole colony will you remove the threat altogether.
What's worse is that spraying the ones that you see only teaches the hive to avoid that route and make new ones, which means infesting, and eating through other parts of your home!
Spraying a can of bug spray or setting up a few termite bait stations will not solve the termite problem, as the results are often short-lived.
Termites are highly sensitive creatures that can be easily disturbed. In combating the infestation, you must not disrupt them.
Yes, you're not supposed to clean up or sweep the termite mud trails either.
Disturbing termites can cause them to scatter and relocate, making it harder to locate and eradicate them effectively.
So what CAN you do to defend your home?
The best option is to call the professionals because termite control is not a DIY job. Pest control providers are equipped with the knowledge, tools, and expertise to eradicate the termites from your home effectively.
They will also offer advice on how to prevent future infestations and can provide a treatment plan tailored to your specific situation.
You may also learn tips and proper methods of getting the colony to move from under your home via the Internet.
Amidst the trolls and brain rot content, many experts are more than willing to share their wisdom with you on platforms such as YouTube, TikTok and Reddit.
But whatever you do, DO NOT SPRAY the termites.
Reference:
1. https://ipm.ucanr.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn7440.html?src=302-www&fr=4454
