Are There Termites in Idaho?
Yes. Contrary to popular belief, Idaho does have termites.
While the state is not as notorious as southern states for termite infestations, subterranean termites, and in some cases dampwood termites, are active throughout most of Idaho, posing a real risk to homeowners.
1. Termite Presence Across Idaho
- Termites inhabit most of Idaho—from Coeur d’Alene in the north through Boise, Pocatello, Twin Falls and beyond.
- According to USDA “Termite Infestation Probability Zones,” much of Idaho falls in Zone 2 (moderate to heavy termite activity), meaning structural risk is significant
- The easternmost counties have somewhat lower risk (none to slight), but termites have been confirmed statewide (MTTC)
Termite Species Found in Idaho
Subterranean Termites (Most Common & Destructive)
- Idaho is home to two primary subterranean species: Western subterranean termite (Reticulitermes hesperus) and Arid-land subterranean termite (Reticulitermes tibialis) (Wikipedia).
- Another species, the Eastern subterranean termite (Reticulitermes flavipes), also occurs across North America and has been reported in Idaho
- These termites build mud tubes to travel between soil nests and wood sources, often entering homes via contact with foundation soil or cracks in concrete
Dampwood Termites (Less Common)
- Pacific dampwood termites (Zootermopsis angusticollis / Z. nevadensis) live in moist or decaying wood and are occasionally found in Idaho but rarely infest homes due to the state’s typically dry climate (PNW Pest Handbook).
Drywood Termites (Rare in Idaho)
- Not native to Idaho, drywood termites (Incisitermes minor) are sometimes introduced through infested furniture or lumber brought in from other regions
Formosan Termites (Not Present)
- The highly destructive Formosan subterranean termite (Coptotermes formosanus) has not been detected in Idaho (University of Idaho)
Termite Behavior & Seasonal Activity
- Subterranean termites in Idaho can remain active much of the year, though activity peaks in cooler, wetter fall, winter, and spring months. They swarm on warm days following rain, and sometimes indoors in heated buildings during winter
- The Western species <em>swarms during rainy season days</em> (autumn, winter, spring), arid‑land forms swarm in spring and fall, and dampwood termites tend to swarm in spring evenings
Signs of Infestation in Idaho Homes
Subterranean Termites
- Look for mud tubes—pencil‑width tunnels on foundation walls or inside crawlspaces—and hollow‑sounding wood, blistered or peeling paint, and swarmer insects or shed wings
Dampwood Termites
- Since they don’t build tubes, signs include discarded wings near moist wood and wood decay in damp logs or structures
Drywood Termites
- Presence of pellet‑like droppings (frass) near wooden structures or furniture, or small exit holes in wood
Risk Levels & Regional Differences
- Moderate to high termite activity is present across most of the state, with slightly lower risk in eastern Idaho
- All Idaho residents should perform basic prevention and consider annual inspections, especially outside far eastern areas. Termite treatments remain effective for about five years, but re‑inspection is recommended yearly
Prevention & Treatment Recommendations
Prevention Tips (Commonly Advised by Experts)
- Fix leaks promptly, maintain proper drainage around foundations, ventilate crawlspaces, seal cracks, keep wood and mulch away from the base of the house, and elevate insulation and wood siding above ground level.
Professional Inspection & Control Options
- DIY termite control is not recommended; most homeowner treatments fail to eliminate colonies.
- Two main professional treatment methods:
- Liquid termiticides applied in soil trenches around structures for barrier protection.
- Bait systems, monitored regularly, can be used in lieu of trenching or in special situations.
Local Resources
- The University of Idaho Extension offers free insect identification through its Ada County Plant Diagnostic Clinic (May–September) and helpful publications like Subterranean Termites
- Idaho requires licensed pest control professionals for treatment, and many providers offer free inspections with estimates.
Final Thoughts
Yes—Idaho does have termites, especially subterranean species that pose a serious threat to wooden structures. Although dampwood termites may be present in very moist areas and drywood termites occasionally show up in transported wood, Formosan termites have not been found in the state. Even though Idaho is relatively dry, termite activity remains significant across most regions. Homeowners should take termite prevention seriously, conduct annual inspections, and call licensed pest control professionals if signs appear.
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