Understanding Nasutitermes walkeri: The Tree-Dwelling Termite
Nasutitermes walkeri is a termite species native to Australia. Unlike ground-dwelling termites such as Coptotermes or Schedorhinotermes, this species typically builds nests above ground in trees. Although Nasutitermes walkeri is less destructive than Coptotermes and Schedorhinotermes, they can still cause damage to wooden structures if they invade your home.
Where Do Nasutitermes walkeri Live?
Nasutitermes walkeri is most commonly found in forested or wooded areas. Their nests and activity are associated with:
- Trees: They often build large, dome-shaped nests high up in trees.
- Timber fences and posts: They can establish colonies in wooden structures in urban settings.
- Wooden buildings: Although rare, they may invade homes, mainly when there is decayed or untreated timber.
These termites do not typically construct underground galleries like some other species. Instead, their nests are visible and primarily above ground.
Why Are Nasutitermes walkeri a Problem?
Nasutitermes walkeri is not as economically significant as other termite species, but it can still cause damage, especially to external timber structures. Key risks include:
- Damage to wooden posts and fences: Their feeding habits can compromise the integrity of timber fencing and garden structures.
- Limited structural damage: While less common, they may damage decayed or untreated timber in buildings.
- Colonisation near homes: Trees or wooden structures close to properties can increase the risk of an infestation.
Their above-ground nests are easily identifiable, making early detection simpler than subterranean termites.
How Do They Behave?
Nasutitermes walkeri is a highly organised social insect. The colony structure includes:
- Queen and King: The reproductive pair responsible for the growth and sustainability of the colony.
- Workers: Handle nest building, repair, and foraging for food. They are the termites that cause damage.
- Soldiers: These termites have elongated heads and a pointed snout, or nasus, which they use to defend the colony by spraying a sticky chemical substance at predators.
Workers forage for cellulose-based materials, including deadwood, timber, and occasionally structural wood. Soldiers are often seen defending the nest if it is disturbed.
What Attracts Nasutitermes walkeri?
Nasutitermes walkeri is drawn to environments with:
- Deadwood: Fallen branches, dead trees, and decaying timber.
- Moist conditions: Like most termites, they thrive in environments with consistent moisture.
- Proximity to trees: They prefer nesting in large trees, particularly species with decaying heartwood.
Signs of an Infestation
Look for the following signs to identify a Nasutitermes walkeri infestation:
- Above-ground nests: Large, spherical nests are often visible in trees or on wooden structures.
- Wood damage: External wooden structures may show signs of hollowing or surface damage.
- Soldiers and workers: Disturbing a nest may reveal workers and soldiers actively defending the colony.
Preventing and Treating Nasutitermes walkeri Infestations
While less aggressive than other termites, preventing an infestation is still essential. Steps to protect your property include:
- Inspect trees and timber: Regularly check for visible nests in nearby trees or wooden structures.
- Remove wood debris: Clear away fallen branches, stumps, and deadwood near your property.
- Maintain wooden structures: Ensure timber fences, posts, and external wooden areas are treated and maintained.
- Professional inspection: Engage a pest control professional to assess and manage infestation risks.
Professional Termite Management with Jets Pest Control
At Jets Pest Control, we provide expert services to manage Nasutitermes walkeri infestations. Our team offers thorough inspections to identify and address termite activity. Proactive management is crucial to protecting your property.
Call 1300 566 569 or visit www.jetspestcontrol.com.au to schedule an inspection today. We serve Ipswich and Brisbane West, offering tailored solutions for your termite concerns.
Nasutitermes walkeri poses the same threat as other subterranean termites, and their presence can lead to damage if ignored—early detection and professional management acriticalkey to minimising risks. Trust Jets Pest Control to safeguard your home and property from termites.
