After Cyclone Alfred tore through Brisbane, strong winds brought down a large tree blocking a walking track, revealing a large hidden termite nest inside its base. The damage and nest was only visible once the tree split open, exposing how termites had been silently weakening it from the inside. This case is a serious reminder that termite-infested trees can become unstable and dangerous, especially during storms.

While many homeowners focus on termite activity inside their house, trees, stumps, and old logs in the backyard can be hidden nesting sites for termites. If undetected, these colonies can increase termite pressure on your property, leading termites straight to your home in search of food.

How Termites Weaken Trees

Termites don’t just target houses—they also infest living and dead trees, hollowing them out from the inside. Over time, this makes trees unstable and more likely to collapse. Some of the key warning signs include:

✔️ Hollowed or weakened trunks – Termites eat the inside of the tree, leaving it structurally weak.
✔️ Mud tubes along the bark or base – These pathways allow termites to travel undetected.
✔️ Large nests inside trees – Some termite species, like Nasutitermes, build nests within tree cavities or on the trunk.
✔️ Branches or entire trees collapsing unexpectedly – A sign that termites have compromised the tree’s integrity.

Why Backyard Trees Should Be Checked During a Termite Inspection

If a tree in your yard is infested with termites, it’s only a matter of time before they start searching for other nearby timber sources—like your home. A thorough termite inspection should include checking:

✅ Trees and tree stumps – These can serve as prime nesting spots for termites.
✅ Logs and stored firewood – Timber left in contact with the ground can attract termites.
✅ Fences and timber garden beds – Termites can easily spread to other wooden structures.

Video of a treatment to a tree that has live termites:

Check Your Insurance and Seek Professional Advice

If a tree poses a risk to your home or neighbouring properties, it’s always worth checking your home insurance policy. Many policies do not cover damage caused by fallen trees if live termites were found. To reduce risks, it’s best to consult an arborist to assess the tree’s stability and, most importantly, book a termite inspection to check for hidden termite activity before it becomes a major problem.

Book a Termite Inspection to Protect Your Home

Don’t wait for the next big storm to reveal a hidden termite infestation in your yard. If you have large trees or old stumps near your home, schedule a professional termite inspection with Conquer Termites today. Early detection is key to preventing structural damage to your home and reducing the risk of falling trees.

📞 Call us today to book your inspection! 1300 417 007

For more information and videos of termites in tree nests:

https://www.conquertermites.com.au/articles/david-bell-talks-about-finding-termite-nests-in-trees/

https://www.conquertermites.com.au/articles/termite-nests-and-treatment-brisbane/

https://www.conquertermites.com.au/articles/2023-06-01-how-can-i-tell-there-are-termites-in-a-tree/