Flying Termites
Flying termites, also called alates or swarmers, are more than just an annoying sight near windows or lights. They are a clear warning sign that a termite infestation may be lurking nearby. Here's everything you need to know about flying termites, how to recognize them, and what steps to take to protect your home.
What does a flying termite look like?
Flying termites can range from 1/4 to 3/8 of an inch in size and vary in color from light brown to black, depending on the species. Discarded wings near windowsills or doorways are another telltale indicator of their presence.
Formosan Termites With Wings
Flying Ants vs. Termites
Flying termites, sometimes mistaken for flying ants, are a warning sign of a potential termite infestation in your home. Knowing how to spot their distinguishing features is crucial for early detection and effective control. Here are the key traits to help you identify flying termites:
Trait | Flying Termites | Flying Ants |
|---|---|---|
Antennae | Straight | Bent at 90-degree angles |
Waist | Broad and evenly shaped | Narrow and pinched |
Wings | Two pairs of equally sized, translucent wings | Front wings larger than hind wings |
Body texture | Soft and smooth | Hard and shiny |
Learn more by reading our Flying Ants vs. Termites article.
Flying Winged Termites
How did I get flying termites?
Flying termites are often a sign that a termite colony is nearby or established within your home. These winged pests are on a mission to reproduce and establish new colonies, and several factors might have contributed to their unwelcome invasion.
Flying termites are typically drawn to homes that provide moisture, food, and shelter. Damp conditions caused by leaky pipes, clogged gutters, or poor ventilation can make your home more appealing. They are drawn to cellulose-rich materials such as wood, paper, and insulation. Untreated wood, wooden flooring, or furniture can be particularly vulnerable to termite infestations.
Are flying termites attracted to light?
Yes! Flying termites are naturally drawn to light sources, which is why you often see them near windows, porch lights, or in well-lit areas. This behavior is common during swarming, particularly in the evening for some species like Formosan termites.
Helpful Tip: To avoid luring swarmers inside, turn off unnecessary outdoor lights during swarming season and ensure windows and doors are properly sealed.
Flying Termite Damage
Termites are among the most damaging insects found in homes. Colonies take about three to six years to mature to the point when the colony produces alates. During this time and as long as the colony is active, the termite workers feeding on wood may create costly damage to buildings.
These worker stage termites eat the soft interior portions of wooden supports and other wooden building components, while leaving the wood’s outer shell intact. Termite infestations can go on for years until the structural damage reveals itself through evidence of mud tubes, cracks or collapse of the building’s wood. Flying termite swarms are a serious warning sign of potential damage for homeowners. If you spot signs of flying termite swarms, contact an exterminator promptly to help prevent further damage.
Termite Swarms
Flying termites, also known as swarmers, are the reproductive members of a termite colony. They swarm to establish new colonies, typically during the spring and fall or after a heavy rain when conditions are ideal. If you notice a swarm of flying termites around your home, it’s a sign that a mature colony is nearby. These pests are attracted to light and often gather near windows or other light sources in your home. To better understand what causes swarming, check out our Termite Swarm article.
How to Get Rid of Flying Termites
If you spot flying termites, quick action is critical to prevent further damage. Here’s what you can do:
Immediate Actions
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Vacuum Flying Termites: Use a vacuum to remove termites indoors and dispose of them outside.
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Turn Off Lights: Limit artificial light to avoid attracting more termites.
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Seal Entry Points: Close gaps or cracks around windows, doors, and vents.
Long-Term Solutions
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Remove Moisture: Fix leaks in plumbing or roofing and use dehumidifiers in damp areas.
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Trim Vegetation: Keep shrubs and tree branches away from your home's exterior to eliminate bridges for termites.
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Address Wood-to-Soil Contact: Ensure wooden structures, such as decks, fences, or siding, are elevated at least 6 inches above the soil.
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Call a Professional: DIY solutions are rarely effective for termites. Professional treatments like soil termiticides or baiting systems offer more reliable results.
When to Call an Exterminator
Termite troubles can be a nightmare for homeowners, causing costly damage if left untreated. Orkin is here to help. We’ll determine if termites are present in your home and, if so, create a customized treatment plan that fits your needs, including flexible financing options. Contact an Orkin Pro today to schedule your free termite inspection and take the first step toward protecting your home.
More Resources
Learn the many signs of termite damage, how to identify a termite infestation and what to do to resolve the situation.
Explore what you need to know about termite damage repair and next steps to take.
Learn how to recognize the different types of drywood termite droppings, or frass, and which type of termite they belong to.
For many homeowners, a termite swarm may be the most visible sign of a termite infestation as it indicates that a current colony is flourishing nearby.