Invasive, destructive Formosan termites detected in Natchitoches Parish
A positive detection of the invasive Formosan subterranean termite (Coptotermes formosanus) was officially confirmed at in Natchitoches, highlighting the ongoing spread of North America’s most destructive termite species into northern regions of Louisiana.
The positive identification (Record ID 13840197 – in the Williams Ave. area) serves as a critical warning for local property owners. While native subterranean termites are a long-standing component of the local ecosystem, Formosan termites pose an entirely different tier of structural threat.
Introduced to Louisiana port cities via military cargo ships following World War II, the invasive species has steadily expanded its footprint. Formosan subterranean termites are now established in at least 42 of Louisiana’s 64 parishes.
Why Formosans Pose an Advanced Threat
Data from the LSU AgCenter underscores that Formosan termites are significantly more aggressive than native subterranean species. Property owners should remain vigilant due to several compounding biological factors:
- Colony Size: A mature native termite colony typically numbers in the hundreds of thousands. By contrast, a single Formosan colony can thrive with millions of individuals, allowing them to cause severe structural damage to a home in as little as three to six months.
- Foraging Range: Formosan workers can tunnel through soil up to 300 feet from their central nest site in search of cellulose materials.
- Carton Nests: Unlike native species that must return to the ground daily for moisture, Formosans can construct “carton nests” inside wall voids, attics, and crawlspaces using a mixture of chewed wood, saliva, and feces. If an internal moisture source exists—such as a pipe or roof leak—they can survive completely independent of soil contact.
Termite Protection Plan
Prepared by J&J Exterminating
J&J Exterminating offers two advanced, highly effective defense systems to eliminate existing termite colonies and prevent future infestations from threatening your property. Based on a thorough evaluation of your structures and soil conditions, a certified J&J technician will work with you to implement the optimal protection strategy.
