Tangong Villa, located in Shanghai, is an old residential area covering more than 47,384.6 square meters. Constructed between 2004 and 2005, this upscale villa complex features low-rise residences and row villas, with paved concrete surfaces providing natural barriers that reduce the risk of termite propagation. Due to these conditions, no significant termite issues were reported in the years following its construction.
However, in June 2024, a homeowner in Villa No. 6 reported termite swarms within their property. Upon inspection, the termites were identified as Coptotermes formosanus (Formosan subterranean termite). The house had been vacant for some time, which allowed the termite colony to grow undisturbed, resulting in extensive activity. Key findings included visible mud tubes and wood damage in specific locations.
Observations and Initial Assessment
Activity Areas:
Termite activity was concentrated around a bay window and a wooden cabinet near the entrance. The flooring was damp and partially rotten due to termites transporting moisture. Additional mud trails were observed along the sidewall of the staircase, indicating that the termites were spreading towards the upper floors. However, no termite activity was detected beyond the first floor.
External Environment:
An examination of the courtyard adjacent to the property revealed no evidence of termite activity. Despite being located near exposed soil, there were no visible signs of a nest or foraging termites.
Potential Nest Location:
The nest was suspected to be underground, possibly beneath the concrete flooring of the living area. This conclusion was drawn from the absence of external termite traces and the localized damage within the property.
Implementation of Bait Technology
To effectively control the infestation, Pestman AG (Above-Ground) and Pestman IG (In-Ground) baiting systems were deployed. These systems provide continuous monitoring and targeted baiting to eliminate termite colonies. The deployment included:
Indoor Placement:
-Five AG bait stations were installed along the bay window, where termite activity was most concentrated.
-One AG station was attached to the mud tubes on the staircase wall.
-Two AG stations were placed inside the cupboard beneath the staircase, targeting termite foraging paths.
Outdoor Placement:
Four IG bait stations were installed in the soil outside the bay window to monitor potential external termite activity.
Monitoring and Results
First Inspection (June 19, 2024):
The AG stations near the bay window showed minimal activity, while the stations under the staircase recorded moderate bait consumption. This suggested that the termite colony was confined to a small area within the house. The IG stations outside the property showed no activity, ruling out external nests.
Second Inspection (July 29, 2024):
Significant termite activity was observed in the AG stations under the staircase and along the stairway wall, with noticeable bait consumption. The absence of activity in other areas reinforced the localized nature of the infestation.
Third Inspection (August 14, 2024):
Termite activity began to decline, with fewer workers and an increased presence of soldier termites. This indicated that the colony was under stress and nearing collapse.
Final Inspection (September 9, 2024):
Minimal termite activity was observed in the bait stations, confirming the effective elimination of the colony. Follow-up inspections over the subsequent months showed no signs of reinfestation.
Conclusion
The case at Tangong Villa demonstrated the effectiveness of the Pestman baiting system in managing termite infestations in residential areas. Key factors contributing to success included strategic placement of bait stations, regular monitoring, and the use of a proven baiting product. This method provided a non-invasive, environmentally friendly solution to termite control, ensuring long-term protection for the property. If you want to learn more information about Pestman AG (Above-Ground) and IG (In-Ground) termite bait stations, please be free to contact with us.
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