In the east, it coexists with R. flavipes, R. virginicus and R. hageni, and south of Lake Michigan, its range overlaps with that of Reticulitermes arenincola.

It mostly occurs in deserts and arid locations such as prairies with hard-packed or alkaline soil, canyons, river valleys and among sand dunes.

As well as wooden structures, it attacks logs and fallen timber, and in deserts feeds on creosote and greasewood bushes.

[3] After a short flight they shed their wings, and a female will search for a crevice or other suitable underground nesting site and be joined there by a male.

In large colonies, it is possible for workers to develop into non-winged reproductives which lay eggs to supplement the queen's effort, or which can replace her should she die.