Many people wonder if the winged insects they see flying are termites. Some termites do fly, and recognizing them is important for homeowners. Identifying flying termites provides an early warning sign of potential activity in or near your home, distinguishing them from harmless insects.
The Nature of Flying Termites
Flying termites, known as “alates” or “swarmers,” are a specific caste within a termite colony. Their primary purpose is to leave their mature colony, find a mate, and establish a new one. This reproductive flight is a natural part of the termite life cycle, ensuring the species’ survival.
Termite swarming is triggered by environmental conditions like warm temperatures, high humidity, and rainfall. These conditions are favorable for their brief flight and establishing a new nest in moist soil. Alates do not eat wood; their role is solely for reproduction.
How to Identify Flying Termites
Distinguishing flying termites from flying ants is important, as they are often confused. Several physical characteristics differentiate them. Flying termites have two pairs of wings equal in size and length, appearing longer than their body. These wings are easily shed; you might find discarded wings near windows or light sources.
In contrast, flying ants have two pairs of wings where the front pair is larger than the back. Termites possess straight, beaded antennae, while ants have elbowed antennae. Termites also have a broad waist, giving their body a uniform width, whereas ants have a distinctively narrow, pinched waist.
What Flying Termites Mean for Your Home
The presence of flying termites, particularly indoors, indicates a mature termite colony nearby or within the property. While swarmers do not cause structural damage, their appearance signals an established, actively reproducing colony.
These swarmers leave the existing colony to mate and seek new locations to form nests. If new pairs find a suitable location, they can establish a new colony in or around your home. The presence of swarmers, or their discarded wings, warns of a potential or existing infestation that could lead to structural damage. Worker termites, which make up the majority of the colony, feed on wood and cause damage.
Next Steps After Spotting Flying Termites
If you observe flying termites indoors, contact a professional pest control service for an inspection. Their presence suggests an established colony is within your home’s structure. A professional can identify the insects and determine the infestation’s extent.
While waiting for professional help, take temporary steps like vacuuming swarmers or sealing obvious entry points. Avoid crushing them, as this might release pheromones that attract more termites. These temporary measures are not a solution to an underlying infestation, and DIY treatments for established colonies are ineffective.