In the Bay Area we have 3 common species, the Subterranean, Drywood and Dampwood termites. Each of these has specific environmental requirements. The Subterranean termite nests in the soil and tunnels up to the structure from underneath. It creates shelter tubes made from chewed wood, earth and their liquid fecal matter to bridge the space between earth and wood. They consume the wood and then return to the soil to feed the colony. These termites can be controlled by applying a termicide to the soil adjacent to the foundation of the home. Drywood termites live in the wood members of your home and have no requirement for soil contact. The most common way to control these termites is with a structural fumigation. A localized treatment for drywood termites can also be an option. The final species is the Dampwood termite. This species is by far the largest and they are found in logs stumps, dead trees and wood that is embedded in moist soil. This species requires wood that has a high moisture content and high humidity. Control of this species is usually established by correcting the problem that led to their establishment(leaky pipes or wood to soil contact) will be effective in elimating them. If the moisture is controlled, a chemical treatment may not be necessary.