Termites become a problem to humans when structures containing cellulose are built over or near their colonies in the ground. Termites build earthen shelter tubes from the ground into the structure for protection from predators and to help maintain a moist environment. Many times these tubes are built on inside walls, porches or chimneys where they cannot be seen. In some rare situations, if water and wood are available from a source other than the soil, subterranean termites can establish a colony with no ground contact. Isolated, above-ground infestations may occur in buildings where termites have access to water from condensation, leaking pipes, roofs or other sources.
Termites are social insects that live in highly organized colonies.
Like many insects, termites have an egg, an immature and an adult stage. The reproductives include the king and queen, and in large colonies, supplementary reproductives that produce eggs. Workers are usually the most numerous individuals in the colony. They are small, wingless and whitish and may be found in damaged wood. The soldiers protect the colony from attackers such as ants.