As warmer weather arrives, many wonder if the flying insects they spot are termites. The appearance of flying termites can be a cause for concern, as they often signal underlying activity. Understanding their specific nature helps clarify their role and what their presence might indicate.
The Nature of Flying Termites
Termites do fly, but only a specific caste within their colony develops wings and takes to the air. These winged termites, known as “alates” or “swarmers,” and their flight is a part of the termite reproductive cycle. Alates are the reproductive members of a termite colony, consisting of both male and female individuals whose purpose is to leave their existing colony, mate, and establish new ones. This dispersal flight, often called a nuptial flight, allows for the species’ expansion into new territories.
Swarmers emerge, triggered by specific environmental conditions. Termite swarms typically occur on warm, calm days with high humidity, often following rainfall. This timing is species-dependent; subterranean termites, for example, frequently swarm during the day in spring or after rain, while drywood termites may swarm in late summer or early fall, often at night. Alates are nourished by the colony and carry fat stores to sustain them during their brief flight and initial efforts to establish a new nest.
Once environmental cues are right, thousands of alates can emerge from their nests to participate in this flight, sometimes over several days. After pairing, male and female alates shed their wings and seek a suitable location, such as a rotting tree stump or moist wood, to burrow and begin a new colony. The female then becomes the queen, laying eggs to establish the new population. It can take years before this new colony produces swarmers.
Distinguishing Flying Termites from Other Insects
Identifying flying termites can be challenging, as they are often confused with other winged insects, especially flying ants. However, several distinct physical characteristics help differentiate them. Their wings are a key difference: flying termites possess two pairs of wings that are equal in length and often appear clear or translucent. In contrast, flying ants have two pairs of wings that are unequal in size, with the front wings being noticeably larger than the hind wings.
Their antennae are another distinguishing feature. Termites have straight, bead-like antennae, appearing as a series of small, connected segments. Flying ants, conversely, have antennae that are elbowed or bent. The body shape also provides a clear indicator: termites have a broad waist, appearing uniform in thickness from head to abdomen. Flying ants, however, have a distinct, pinched waist between their thorax and abdomen. After mating, termite alates shed their wings, often leaving behind piles of discarded wings, whereas flying ants typically retain their wings longer or shed them less conspicuously.
What Seeing Flying Termites Indicates
The presence of flying termites, especially indoors, is a significant indicator of potential termite activity. While swarmers themselves do not cause damage, their appearance signals that a mature termite colony is nearby, potentially within or very close to the structure. Termites do not travel long distances, so swarmers emerging inside a home typically mean an established colony exists within its walls, foundation, or immediate yard.
A swarm indicates the existing colony has grown large enough to produce reproductives, a process that typically takes three to five years for a colony to reach maturity. This implies that the colony has likely been active for some time, potentially causing hidden structural damage. Swarmers are attracted to light, often appearing near windows, doors, or light fixtures as they attempt to exit the structure or are drawn to indoor lights.
If winged termites are observed indoors, it is a strong indication of an existing infestation requiring professional attention. Homeowners should avoid disturbing the swarmers and instead contact a pest control professional promptly for an inspection. Professional assessment can determine the extent of the activity and recommend appropriate treatment to prevent further damage.