Bug Identifier
Dampwood Termite
Community identification

Dampwood Termite

Zootermopsis spp.

Order & Family
Order Blattodea, Family Archotermopsidae
Size
1/2 inch to 1 inch long (alates/swarmers with wings can be longer)
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Damp or decaying wood with high moisture content, often found in logs, stumps, or water-damaged wooden structures.

Diet & Feeding

Cellulose derived from damp, rotting timber and wood-based materials.

Behavior Patterns

Eusocial insects that live in colonies; swarmers are reproductive members that fly out to establish new colonies, typically after rain. They shed their wings after landing.

Risks & Benefits

Benefits the ecosystem by decomposing dead wood and recycling nutrients; however, they can cause significant structural damage to homes if high moisture environments exist.