We have an unusual little termite out here in the desert – Gnathamitermes perplexus. These termites really don’t do a lot of damage but they will consume paper, dead grass, dead bark including dead cactus. The work they leave behind can actually appear artistic and look like they are building castles.

I have seen them called encrusting termites, they can and do sometimes enter homes but the damage if any will be limited to the drywall paper. They have limited abilities and are unable to handle solid wood and cellulose. So don’t panic, not all termites are headed to your home!