Termites, often hidden from view, exhibit a distinct behavior that can signal their presence: shedding their wings. This phenomenon is a natural and necessary part of their life cycle, occurring under specific circumstances and carrying significant implications for homeowners. Understanding why termites drop their wings provides insight into their biology and potential activity near or within a structure.
Winged Termites and Their Role
Winged termites, known as “alates” or “swarmers,” are the reproductive members of a mature termite colony. Their purpose is to leave their colony, find a mate, and establish a new one. These alates develop wings and a darker, harder exoskeleton, helping them survive exposure to light and less humid air. Swarming is a dispersal event, often triggered by environmental factors such as warm temperatures and high humidity, typically after rainfall.
During a swarm, hundreds to thousands of alates emerge, taking to the air to find partners. This flight is short, though wind can carry them further. Their appearance signifies a mature colony is ready to expand.
Why Termites Shed Their Wings
Termites shed their wings to transition from dispersal to establishing new colonies. Once an alate finds a suitable mate and a potential location for a new nest, their wings become unnecessary and can even hinder their next steps. Shedding wings allows them to conserve energy and focus on establishing a colony. This process, called dealation, is a deliberate act, often facilitated by a suture line at the base of the wing.
After mating, the newly paired termites no longer require their wings for flight. The wings would impede their ability to burrow into soil or wood, which is important for initiating a new colony. By shedding their wings, they become more streamlined and better equipped for an underground or concealed existence.
The New Colony Begins
Immediately after shedding their wings, a male and female pair, now known as the king and queen, begin establishing a new colony. They seek out a secluded, moist environment, such as a crevice in wood or soil. The queen emits a sex pheromone to attract her mate, and once paired, they engage in a “tandem run,” with the female leading the search for a suitable nesting site.
Upon finding a suitable location, the royal pair burrows into the ground or wood, creating a small chamber. The queen then begins to lay her first batch of eggs, a small number, ranging from six to twelve. These initial eggs are carefully tended by the king and queen until they hatch and develop into worker termites, who then take over the tasks of caring for subsequent offspring and expanding the colony.
Implications for Your Home
Finding discarded termite wings indoors is an indicator of termite activity. It suggests a termite swarm has occurred either inside your home or nearby. These shed wings are often found near windows, doors, or light sources, as alates are attracted to light during their flight. While winged termites do not cause damage to wood, their presence means a mature colony is nearby, and new colonies may be forming.
The presence of shed wings is a warning sign that should prompt further investigation. It indicates a potential infestation that could lead to structural damage if left unaddressed. If these wings are found, it is advisable to look for other signs of termites, such as mud tubes or damaged wood, and consider a professional inspection to assess the activity.