Standard Pest Control Tampa FL

A termite "swarm" is when large numbers of termites (also known as alates) leave an existing colony in order to create new ones. Alates will gather in large numbers to search for new homes. If you have never seen termites swarm before, it can be quite shocking.

Although termites don't eat wood cellulose, they can set up camp on your property and start eating it. A termite swarm may be one of the first signs homeowners are aware of the existence of termites.

What does a termite swarmer look like?

They are about one inch in length, have dark-colored wings and two pairs of equal-sized wings. Although flying ants look like termites, there are some key differences. Termites have a narrower waist, while ants have one. Termite wings are larger than ant wings, and their wings are also uniform in size. It is difficult to distinguish between termite and ant swarmers when they are present in large numbers. However, it is worth removing any large swarm as soon as possible. You can refer to our complete guide to the differences between flying termites swarmers and flying insects.

Why do termites swarm?

When a colony is ready for expansion and new food sources, termites will swarm. Termite colonies usually expand only once a year. The termites will stop swarming once they find a home. As they mature, the wings of the alates will fall off and they will begin mating to form a new colony.

What happens when termites swarm in the wild?

The termite swarming season varies depending on which species it is but usually occurs in late winter or early spring. If you are concerned about termite activity, March is the best month to watch. As mentioned, there's no way to predict when termite activity will occur.

What is the difference between a termite and swarming seasons?

Yes. Yes. If termites have already been found, they may be eating wood from your property, causing damage. Termite activity does not always occur during swarming seasons. Termites can be found all year round.

Is there a variety of termite swarmers available?

The three most prevalent termite species are dry wood termites (Formosan termites) and subterranean termites (subterranean termites). Although each type of termite has a different swarming pattern, most will swarm in the aftermath of a rainstorm. They also tend to avoid high winds and avoid high winds.