Termites are social insects that live in organized colonies and feed on cellulose found in wood and plant materials. Understanding their activity patterns, especially when they become most visible, is important for early identification of potential infestations. Recognizing these behaviors can help property owners address a termite presence before extensive damage occurs.
Common Times for Termite Activity
While worker termites continuously forage within hidden tunnels, the most noticeable event is swarming. This involves winged reproductive termites, known as alates, leaving their mature colony to establish new ones.
Subterranean termites typically swarm during daylight hours, often in spring or early summer, particularly after rain events. These swarms can occur from February to May in some regions. Drywood termites, in contrast, often swarm during late summer or fall, and their activity can occur day or night, depending on the species. Some drywood species, like the West Indian drywood termite, prefer to swarm at night from late spring to summer. These swarming events, though brief, are a primary indicator of a mature termite colony nearby.
Environmental Factors Influencing Emergence
Environmental conditions significantly influence when termites swarm. Warm temperatures and high humidity are primary factors, as these conditions are optimal for the dispersal and survival of new colonies. Subterranean termites often swarm on warm, humid days following rainfall, as moisture softens the soil and aids in the establishment of new nests.
Light levels also affect emergence. Some species, like the Formosan subterranean termite, are attracted to light and swarm at dusk or night, while others prefer daylight. These environmental cues signal that conditions are suitable for winged termites to leave their existing colony, find mates, and establish new colonies.
Species-Specific Activity Patterns
Subterranean termites reside in the soil and construct distinctive mud tubes to travel between their underground nests and food sources. Their swarming typically occurs in spring, often between March and June, especially after periods of rain and rising temperatures. The Formosan subterranean termite, an invasive species, generally swarms from April through July, often at night.
Drywood termites do not require soil contact, establishing colonies directly within dry wood. They expel small, hard, hexagonal fecal pellets, known as frass, from their galleries. Drywood termite swarming usually takes place in late summer or fall, from August to November, though some species may swarm in late spring or summer.
Indications of Termite Presence
Beyond direct sightings of swarming insects, several other signs indicate an active termite infestation.
- Pencil-sized mud tubes, made of soil and wood, indicate subterranean termite activity.
- Discarded wings found near windowsills, doors, or light sources signal a nearby colony.
- Small piles of dry, granular pellets, resembling sawdust or sand, are the frass of drywood termites.
- Wood that sounds hollow when tapped, or appears blistered or darkened, suggests termite tunneling beneath the surface.
These physical signs indicate an active infestation, even if termites are not directly visible.
Understanding the Significance of Termite Sightings
Observing termite swarmers indicates a mature termite colony is established within or near a property. While swarmers focus on reproduction and do not cause damage, their presence signifies an existing colony capable of structural harm. Termites continuously feed on cellulose, which can compromise the integrity of wooden structures.
Any signs of termites, including discarded wings, mud tubes, or frass, warrant immediate attention. A professional inspection is recommended to identify the species, assess the infestation’s extent, and determine management strategies. Early detection prevents extensive and costly structural damage to a property.