Book 11, Question 103
Why Do Termites Build Tall Mounds?
Termites build tall mounds because the mounds work like a natural air conditioner! Inside is a maze of tunnels and chimneys. They keep the termites' home fresh and steady, even in hot places.
More fun facts
- Termites working in groups of a million or two build mounds that can reach about 5 meters (17 feet) tall.
- They move about a quarter of a metric ton of dirt to build one mound.
- A mound can take four to five years to build.
- Researchers once thought mound spires worked like chimneys drawing hot air out.
- One termite species has been building a huge field of mounds for about 4,000 years.
- Engineers are using termite mounds as inspiration for energy saving buildings.
Sources: National Geographic, BBC, National Geographic
Questions kids ask
Can rain damage termite mounds?
Yes. A heavy downpour can make about a third of the mounds collapse.