Winged termites, known as alates or swarmers, are the reproductive members of a colony. The shedding of their wings, a process called dealation, is a natural and necessary step for them to transition into a new phase of their existence. This is how termites expand their populations.
The Purpose of Winged Termites
Alates are produced for reproduction and the establishment of new colonies when a colony reaches maturity, typically after several years. These winged individuals leave their parent colony in a synchronized swarm, a dispersal flight. During this flight, male and female alates seek mates and new territories. This temporary winged stage allows dispersal over short distances, facilitating genetic diversity. The timing of these swarms is often influenced by environmental conditions such as warm temperatures, high humidity, and recent rainfall, which provide favorable circumstances for new colony establishment.
The Moment Wings are Shed
Dealation occurs shortly after the dispersal flight. Once a winged termite has landed and found a suitable location or a potential mate, it intentionally breaks off its wings. This physical act happens at a pre-determined suture line located at the base of each wing. This signifies the end of their aerial journey and the beginning of a ground-dwelling life. The wings are no longer needed once the termite finds a suitable spot for colony formation. Shedding them allows the termite to conserve energy and focus on establishing a new nest.
Life as a New Royal Pair
After dealation, a male and female termite pair, now considered a king and queen, begin founding a new colony. They seek a protected location, often a small crevice or moist wooden cavity, to create a nuptial chamber. In this chamber, they mate and begin their reproductive duties. The queen’s primary role is to lay eggs, with the king supplying sperm for fertilization. The first batch of eggs is laid within days or weeks of mating. This initial brood develops into worker termites, who then assist in expanding the colony, foraging for food, and caring for subsequent generations.
What Finding Wingless Termites Means
Finding shed termite wings or wingless termites indicates termite activity. It suggests that a termite swarm has recently occurred, meaning a mature colony is likely nearby. While shed wings don’t confirm an active infestation, they are a warning sign that should prompt further investigation. Distinguishing termite wings from those of flying ants is helpful; termite wings are typically equal in size and length, often twice as long as their body, while ant wings vary in size, with front wings larger than hind wings. Additionally, termites have straight antennae and a broad waist, unlike ants which have bent antennae and a pinched waist. If shed wings or wingless termites are found indoors, particularly near windows or light sources, it suggests swarmers have emerged from a colony within or very close to the property, indicating a potential infestation that requires professional assessment.