As we were getting ready to film we unearthed some interesting bugs and decided to share them with you. The termite receives a bad name all over the world. However, they are actually a useful insect in breaking down mulch and other wood products, unless they find your home. They also aerate, drain and mix soil, and are food to birds, frogs and toads. Colonies will swarm when they reach maturity; if this happens in a home, that is usually the first sign to the homeowner that there’s a problem since termites usually spend their lives hidden. Termites thrive in moist environments and warm places and their diet consists of wood. They can tunnel 30’ from their nest through soil, wood, insulation and thin plastic. If you suspect termite activity, contact pest control specialists, consult the University of Maryland termite materials and send a clear picture to your county extension office.
For more Termite information visit: https://extension.umd.edu/hgic/topics...
For identifying pests in your home visit: https://extension.umd.edu/hgic/topics...

Joyce Browning Horticulturist, Master Gardener Coordinator
Video credit: Bethany Evans Longwood Gardens Professional Gardener Program Alumni; CPH

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