Quick Answer
California has three major termite groups: Drywood termites (most common in coastal CA, live in wood without soil contact), Subterranean termites (most destructive, live in soil, build mud tubes), and Dampwood termites (require moist wood, found in coast ranges). Signs of infestation include: mud tubes (subterranean), frass (drywood pellets), discarded wings, hollow-sounding wood, and visible damage. California has the highest termite damage cost in the US.
California Termite Species Guide
Termites cause over $1 billion in property damage in California each year. The state's mild climate allows termites to be active year-round. Identifying the type of termite infestation is critical for selecting the right treatment approach.
California Termite Comparison
| Feature | Drywood Termite | Subterranean Termite | Dampwood Termite |
|---|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Pale brown, winged forms dark | Creamy white, dark winged forms | Large, brownish, up to 1 inch |
| Colony Size | 1,000-5,000 | 100,000-1,000,000+ | 1,000-4,000 |
| Damage Rate | Slow | Fast (can destroy a house in 2-3 years) | Slow |
| Moisture Need | Low (infests dry wood) | High (needs soil contact) | Very high (requires wet wood) |
| Signs | Frass (pellets), discarded wings | Mud tubes, swarmers | Wet wood, no mud tubes |
| Treatment | Tenting (fumigation), spot treatment | Soil treatment, baiting | Remove moisture source, replace wood |
| Cost to Treat | $2,000-$5,000 (tenting) | $1,500-$4,000 (soil treatment) | $500-$2,000 (localized) |
| Geographic Range | Coastal CA, Central Valley | Statewide, more common in valleys | Coastal ranges, mountains |
Drywood Termites: The Most Common in California
Drywood termites are the most common termite species in California, particularly in coastal areas from San Diego to San Francisco. They do not require soil contact and can infest dry wood directly. They enter homes through small cracks and crevices. The first sign is often frass — tiny, sand-like pellets that accumulate below infested wood. Treatment typically requires fumigation (tenting) for whole-house infestations.
Subterranean Termites: The Most Destructive
Subterranean termites are the most destructive termite species in California. They live in the soil and build mud tubes to reach wood above ground. They are most common in the Central Valley and inland areas. They require consistent moisture and are often found near leaky pipes, poor drainage, or soil-to-wood contact. Treatment involves soil-applied termiticides or baiting systems.
Dampwood Termites: A Sign of Moisture Problems
Dampwood termites are the largest termites in California. They require wood with high moisture content and are a sign of a moisture problem (leaky roof, plumbing leaks, poor ventilation). They are most common in coastal areas and mountain regions. Treatment involves fixing the moisture source and replacing damaged wood.
Termite Prevention Tips
- Eliminate soil-to-wood contact (foundation, decks, fences)
- Fix leaky pipes, faucets, and roof leaks promptly
- Ensure proper ventilation in crawlspaces and attics
- Remove wood debris and stumps from around the foundation
- Use termite-resistant wood for construction
- Get annual termite inspections
- Keep mulch at least 6 inches from the foundation
FAQ: California Termites
How do I know if I have termites?
Look for mud tubes on foundation walls, frass (pellets) near wood, discarded wings near windows and doors, hollow-sounding wood, and tight-fitting doors or windows that suddenly become difficult to open.
When is termite season in California?
Drywood termites swarm in late summer and fall (August-November). Subterranean termites swarm in spring (March-May). Swarming is the most visible sign of an established colony.
Professional Wildlife Removal in California
If you need professional wildlife removal or pest control services in California, our local guides cover the following cities:
- Los Angeles, CA — Wildlife & Pest Identification Guide
- San Diego, CA — Wildlife & Pest Identification Guide
For help identifying the specific animal causing damage in your yard, see our What Animal Is Digging Holes in My California Yard? guide.
Sources: US Fish and Wildlife Service, USDA Wildlife Services, state wildlife agencies, CDC, academic extension services. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional wildlife management advice.