When most people think of termites, they picture the classic white ants chewing through timber inside the walls of a home. But not all termites behave the same way. One particularly interesting species found across Australia is Nasutitermes exitiosus. These termites are part of the “nasute” group, easily identified by the pointed snout (or “nasus”) on the soldiers’ heads. Unlike some other termite species, N. exitiosus prefer to build their nests in the ground — often out in the yard, under logs, or around tree stumps. While that might sound less threatening at first, their distance from the home doesn’t mean your property is safe.
Nasutitermes exitiosus are ground-dwelling termites that build hard, mound-shaped nests. These nests can be quite visible in rural and bushland areas, but in urban settings, they’re often hidden beneath mulch or buried roots. From these hidden bases, they construct mud shelter tubes to reach food sources — and timber inside your home is just as attractive to them as anything in the bush. Their ability to travel underground makes it easy for them to go unnoticed until significant damage has occurred.
While N. exitiosus are not the most aggressive feeders compared to species like Coptotermes acinaciformis, they are still capable of causing serious damage over time. They target softwood timbers and can hollow out support beams, floor joists, and subfloor timbers, compromising the structural integrity of your home. Because their nests may be located well away from the building, early detection can be difficult. By the time signs of infestation appear indoors — like sagging floors, hollow-sounding timber, or mud tunnels — extensive internal damage may already be done.
The good news is, regular termite inspections a well-maintained home and a termite management plan can significantly reduce your risk. At Pestgo, we understand termite behaviour and tailor our treatments to match the species involved. If you suspect activity or just want peace of mind, don’t wait for the damage to become obvious. Book a termite inspection today — your home’s safety starts below the surface.
