Have you ever spotted tiny flying insects in your home and wondered if they were termites? Termites with wings, also known as swarmers, are a sign that a termite colony is looking to expand. In this detailed guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about flying termites, how to identify them, and how to protect yourself from infestation.
What Are Termites with Wings?
Termites with wings are reproductive termites, also known as alates or swarmers. Their primary job is to leave the existing colony, find a mate, and establish a new colony. These flying termites do not eat wood themselves but are responsible for creating future colonies, which will include destructive worker termites.
Why Do Termites Have Wings?
Termites develop wings as part of their reproductive cycle. The wings allow them to travel away from their original colony to search for a suitable nesting location. Once they find a mate and a new home, they shed their wings and start building a new colony. The presence of discarded wings near windows, doors, or other entry points in a home is often an early sign of an infestation.
What Happens After They Shed Their Wings?
Once winged termites land in a suitable location, they shed their wings and begin to reproduce. The king and queen termites will start laying eggs, which hatch into worker termites. These termites are responsible for feeding the colony and will begin eating wood, leading to structural damage over time. Seeing piles of discarded wings in your home is a clear indication that termites are settling in.
What Do Flying Termites Look Like?
Winged termites are typically 1/4 to 3/8 inches long and can appear pale or dark brown. Their wings are translucent with a slight vein pattern and are easily detached. You might find discarded wings near windows, doors, or light sources, which is a sign that termites are attempting to establish a new colony inside or near your home.
Where Do Flying Termites Come From?
Termites with wings emerge from mature termite colonies that have reached a sufficient size. They are usually seen after heavy rainfall or during warm, humid seasons when conditions are ideal for colony expansion. The presence of winged termites indicates that there is already an established colony nearby.
Flying Termites vs. Flying Ants
Many people mistake flying termites for flying ants, but there are distinct differences between them:
|
Trait |
Flying Termites |
Flying Ants |
|
Antennae |
Straight, Bead-like antennae |
Bent or elbowed antennae |
|
Wings |
Front and back wings are equal in size |
Larger front wings and smaller back wings |
|
Body Shape |
Thick and uniform waist |
Narrow and pinched waist |
|
Color |
Light brown or black |
Reddish or dark brown |
Are Flying Termites Dangerous?
While winged termites themselves don’t cause direct damage, their presence is a major warning sign of an active termite infestation. If left untreated, termites can cause severe structural damage to homes and buildings, potentially leading to costly repairs.
Signs of a Termite Infestation
If you notice any of the following warning signs, you may have a termite infestation:
- Piles of discarded wings near windows and doors
- Hollow-sounding or visibly damaged wood
- Mud tubes along walls or foundations
- Small holes in drywall with termite droppings
- Warping or buckling wood flooring
- Termite swarms around your home
Early detection is key to preventing extensive damage.
How Long Do Flying Termites Live?
Flying termites have a short lifespan if they do not find a suitable place to start a colony—typically only a few hours to a few days. However, if they successfully establish a colony, they can live for years. The queen termite can live for decades, continuously producing eggs and expanding the colony.
What to Do If You See Flying Termites?
If you spot flying termites in or around your home, follow these steps:
- Capture a few specimens for proper identification.
- Inspect your home for additional signs of termite activity.
- Contact a pest control professional immediately for an inspection and treatment plan.
Best Treatment Options for Termites
If you have termites, here are some of the most effective treatments:
- Bait Stations: Slow-acting poisons that eliminate entire colonies over time.
- Liquid Termiticides: Applied around your home to create a protective barrier.
- Fumigation: Used for severe infestations to kill termites in an entire structure.
- Boric Acid: A natural termite deterrent that can be used in DIY treatments.
When to Call a Professional Exterminator
If you notice winged termites or signs of an infestation, call a pest control professional immediately. We offer pest control in Port Orange, Lakeland, Longwood, Orlando, Davie and other areas of Florida.
Conclusion
Seeing termites with wings is a serious warning sign that shouldn’t be ignored. Whether they are inside your home or around your property, they indicate a potential infestation. Early detection and prompt action are key to preventing costly damage. If you suspect termites, contact a professional termite control service immediately.
