Termites at a small hole in the timber. Larger-than-life reproduction ratio. Termites are insects in the order Isoptera.

According to pest control company Orkin's latest list of Top 50 Termites Cities, Chicago was a newly minted member of the top five, making the largest jump of the year from No. 23 to fifth on the list.

The list is based on treatment data from the metro areas where Orkin performed the most first-time customer termite treatments from Feb. 1, 2021 to Jan. 31, 2022. The ranking includes both residential and commercial treatments, Orkin stated in a press release.

In addition to fifth place Chicago, St. Louis rose three spots from the 2021 iteration of the list to No. 30. Kansas City stayed even at No. 28.

An ideal environment for termites includes a combination of warmth, moisture and food, Orkin stated, with termites constantly in search of any source of wood, including residential properties and beyond.

Spring starts termite season, according to Orkin, so it is important to take precautionary steps to protect households from so-called "silent destroyers."

"Termites are able to hide in your home for years, secretly damaging your home without ever being acknowledged," Glen Ramsey, Orkin entomologist, said in a statement. "Some species of termite queens lay millions of eggs each year that hatch and grow into wood-eating machines, wreaking havoc within the foundation of your home and causing extensive damage. Therefore, it's important to take action on preventative measures that will protect your home."

Homeowners can get termites in a variety of ways, including from wooden structures, like porches and decks, directly touching the ground, firewood leaning against the house, soil that stays damp long-term from leaking faucets or water retention areas near foundations and dead trees or other landscaping near the house. 

Signs of a termite infestation include: 

For termite prevention, Orkin recommends homeowners:

If a termite infestation is suspected, a pest management professional should be contacted immediately for an assessment, Orkin stated.

Shepard Price has a Master's degree in Journalism from the University of Texas and lives in St. Louis. They have been in journalism for more than four years.