The sight of termite swarm is something special to behold – until they enter your home through the windows or crawl on the trees in your yard. Termites, like many insect populations, like to swarm. Unlike many other insects, however, termite swarms have the potential to cause massive destruction to your home. Swarming season in affected areas is from early spring to the end of summer in November. Keep reading to learn more about termite swarms and how to protect your property from these invasive insects.
Is This a Termite Swarm?
Why Termites Swarm
Termites swarm occur when new colonies are created and breed happens. Like ants, termites live in colonies and move together in swarms. When they leave the nest in a swarm, it’s called an alates. These swarmers or alates are juvenile termites that develop their wings in the spring.
While the termites don’t fly far distances, they’ll carry on the breeze until they reach the ground. Then, they will find a suitable location to build a nest. Termite colonies typically swarm once a year, but there are cases where they may swarm several times during the spring and summer months.
Identifying a Termite Swarm
It takes little time for termites to form new colonies. So, homeowners must identify swarms quickly to safeguard their homes from infestation. The termite swarmers and worker termites immediately begin creating a new colony as soon as they touch the ground.
The termites look for a cellulose food source and some moisture. That’s all they need to decide to form a new colony.
Unfortunately, your house is on the menu – providing the ideal conditions termites need to create a new colony and thrive. This includes the lights around your home.
Many homeowners confuse termites with flying ants, but the two species have a significant difference.
- Termite antennae are straight while flying ants have bends in them.
- Flying ant wing length varies while termites are of an even size.
- The termite has a straight waist while flying ants have a pinched waistline.
If you’re concerned about the termites entering your home after the swarm, look for discarded termite wings at entry points like windowsills and doors. The termites discard their wings when they land. Flying ants don’t leave their wings behind when they land.
Identifying a Termite Swarm
Homeowners must act fast if they notice the signs of a termite infestation. As mentioned, the termites start looking to create a new colony immediately after landing and discarding their wings. Infestations happen fast, and if you don’t stop them in time, your home is at risk.
Two types of termites exist, and the homeowner must identify them. Depending on which type landed on their property determines their response to the situation.
- Subterranean termites: land on the ground, looking for crawlspaces to set up their colony.
- Drywood termites: infest wood in the attic or roof, eat wood, and chew away the structure, weakening it.
Call a Termite Control Specialist
If you suspect termite activity in or around your home, call a local termite control specialist. Have your property inspected and identify the colony’s location.
Leaving it could result in severe structural damage to your property and expensive repairs. Don’t wait. Call the pros and let them handle the situation.
Additional Reading: When is the Best Time for Termite Treatment?
Hire a Professional – ABC Termite & Pest Control Company – Omaha & Lincoln
Find a reputable pest control company in Omaha or Lincoln that you TRUST and ask about their termite inspection and pest management services. You may think you are saving money however, a single misapplication could have significant and adverse or deadly consequences for you or your loved ones. Contact ABC Termite & Pest Control in Omaha & Lincoln, NE to talk with an exterminator today!
