Protect Your Home from Flying Termites this Season

What are Flying Termites?

Flying termites, scientifically known as alates, are a winged variation of regular termites. They are the reproductive caste of the termite colony and play a crucial role in the survival and expansion of their colonies. Flying termites are often seen swarming in large numbers during certain seasons, and while they may resemble flying ants, there are distinct differences. These winged insects are often considered a nuisance, as they can cause significant damage to wooden structures and crops if left unchecked. Understanding their biology, behavior, and habits is essential for effective termite control and prevention measures.

Seasonal Infestations

Seasonal infestations refer to the phenomenon where certain pests or insects become more prevalent during specific times of the year. These infestations are influenced by various factors such as weather conditions, availability of food sources, and environmental changes. Termite infestations are commonly associated with seasonal patterns.

The specific times of the year when termite infestations are most likely to occur vary depending on the region. In many parts of the world, termite activity tends to increase during the warmer months, typically spring and summer. This is when termites are most active in searching for food, expanding their colonies in swarms, and reproducing. The warm and moist weather conditions during these seasons create the ideal environment for termites to thrive.

Several factors contribute to the seasonality of termite infestations. One key factor is temperature. Termites are cold-blooded insects, so they are more active and have a higher metabolic rate in warmer weather. Additionally, the availability of resources plays a significant role. As spring and summer bring an abundance of food sources such as wood and plant debris, termites are more likely to infest buildings and structures in search of sustenance.

Warning Signs of an Infestation

Termites can wreak havoc on your home if left undetected. Being aware of the warning signs can help you identify if there is an infestation and take prompt action to prevent further damage.

The most common sign of a termite infestation is the presence of narrow mud tubes along your walls, foundation, or other surfaces. These tubes are typically about the width of a pencil and are used by termites to travel between their underground colonies and their food sources. Another indicator to watch out for is tiny holes in wood surfaces, which are created when termites burrow through the material.

Frass droppings are another telltale sign of termites. These droppings resemble small wood pellets and can often be found near infested areas. Additionally, the presence of shed wings is a clear indication of an infestation. These flying termites, also known as swarmers, are reproductive termites looking to establish new colonies and will shed their wings when settling in a new location.

Common Types of Flying Termites

Flying termites play a crucial role in the expansion and survival of termite colonies. They emerge from established colonies during specific periods to mate and establish new colonies. While all flying termites belong to the same order, Isoptera, there are several common types that can be found in various regions around the world. Understanding the different types of flying termites can help homeowners and pest control professionals identify and address termite infestations effectively.

1. Subterranean Termites:

Subterranean termites are one of the most destructive types of termites. They create underground colonies with vast tunnel systems, making them difficult to detect until significant damage has already occurred. These termites have dark brown or black bodies and measure about 0.25 to 0.5 inches long, including their wings. Subterranean termites are known for their ability to build mud tubes that connect their nests to above-ground wood sources, providing protection while foraging for food.

2. Drywood Termites:

Drywood termites, as the name implies, infest dry and sound wood. Unlike subterranean termites, they don’t require contact with moist soil to survive. These termites have a pale or light brown color and are slightly larger than subterranean termites, measuring around 0.3 to 0.5 inches long, including their wings. Drywood termites create colonies within the wood they infest, making their detection more challenging. They can be found in furniture, structural timbers, and other wooden objects.

3. Formosan Termites:

Formosan termites, also known as super termites, are an aggressive and destructive species. These termites have yellowish-brown bodies and measure about 0.5 inches long, including their wings. Formosan termites build massive colonies and can cause extensive damage to structures within a relatively short period. They are known for constructing mud nests and can infest multiple levels of a building, including wall voids, attics, and even trees or shrubs surrounding the property.

What do Flying Termites Look Like?

When it comes to termites, most individuals envision these pests as small, wingless insects that cause extensive damage to wooden structures. However, a flying termite differs in appearance from its non-winged counterparts. Unlike the worker termites, which stay within the confines of their nests, the appearance of flying termites varies in several distinct ways. By understanding what flying termites look like, homeowners can easily identify the presence of these destructive pests and take the necessary steps to eliminate the risk of termite infestation.

Physical Characteristics

Flying termites typically have a light gold coloration and possess six legs. They have two small antennae that are generally straight with a slight curve and can be identified by their thick, single-part body. Additionally, they have two large, translucent wings on either side of their body, sometimes measuring up to 3 centimeters per wing and displaying a veiny appearance.

How are Flying Termites Treated?

It is crucial to treat flying termites promptly to prevent further damage to your property. There are several treatment options available, but it is essential to seek professional pest control for a thorough and effective solution.

Professional pest control is important when treating flying termites because they have the expertise and knowledge to properly identify the extent of the infestation and recommend appropriate treatment methods. They use specialised products and techniques that are not readily available to the general public. Effective treatment involves targeting the termite colony directly, ensuring complete eradication.

One potential DIY trap for flying termites involves the use of cardboard boxes. Termites are attracted to cellulose materials in cardboard, so placing damp cardboard boxes near a suspected termite area can lure and trap them. However, this method is not foolproof and may not eliminate the entire colony, leading to recurring infestations.

Using the wrong treatment for flying termites can have detrimental consequences. Ineffective treatment methods can give termites more time to cause damage to your property, leading to costly repairs. Using incorrect products or techniques may also pose health risks to you and your family. It is crucial to have a professional like Flick Pest Control assess the infestation to provide the correct diagnosis and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan for effective termite elimination.