fbpx

5 Things You Should Know About Flying Termites

Hey there! Some links on this page are affiliate links which means that, if you choose to make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I greatly appreciate your support!

It might have so happened that you came around flying termites and would have had a number of questions pertaining to them. Today, in the content of this article, we will discuss 5 things you should know about flying termites.

What are flying termites?

Flying termites, or alates, are just common, ordinary termites that have reached the winged stage of their lifespan.

They are not a separate species of termite and can be found in any colony. Alates are produced when the colony reaches a certain size and needs to swarm in order to reproduce.

5 things you should know about flying termites

These termites are a particular type of termite that is known for its proclivity to search for new locations to establish colonies.

They are drawn to moisture and are frequently seen around water sources such as dripping faucets or roofs.

If you see flying termites inside or outside your home, it’s usually a clear indication that you’ve got an established termite infestation in your home or in your yard.

Winged termites, or “alates,” are the reproductive form of the termite species. They have not yet developed wings and cannot fly, but they are distinguishable from other termites because of their two pairs of wings.

Flying termites, or alates, are the reproductive stage of the termite life cycle.

They don’t cause a lot of structural damage when they’re flying around, but what they do form is a whole new generation of wood-chomping baby termites that will damage your property if left unchecked.

It’s important to address any signs of a flying termite infestation as soon as possible.

They are the most common type of termite in warm climates and can travel long distances during mating season.

Flying termites are subterranean termites that live in colonies above the ground. They are attracted to wood piles, mulch, and moist soil conditions.

These termites are a serious problem because they can quickly colonize an area and cause extensive damage to homes and other structures.

Flying termites are particular termite that has developed wings to navigate their environment better and protect themselves from predators.

What’s more, flying termites have a greater reproductive capacity than other types of termites, leading to an increase in the number of termite colonies over time.

In addition, flying termites have been linked with changes in climate. In particular, increased rainfall and temperature fluctuations are thought to trigger their flying behavior.

Not all flying termites cause damage, but their presence can lead to structural instability in buildings as they create openings in walls and ceilings.

What do flying termites look like?

A soldier termite. Soldiers are a particular caste of termites in the colony whose main function is to protect the rest of the colony from attack by ants and other predators. They have much larger heads and mandibles to help them to bite and face any threat."n

Flying termites are distinguishable from other types of termites because they have two pairs of wings and two straight antennae.

These creatures are about 1/4 to 3/8 inch long in size and can be light, dark brown, or black in color. They are distinguishable from other termites by their wings, which are twice as long as their body.

Flying termites come in a variety of shapes and colors, but their size will generally depend on the species.

Most flying termites are black or brown, but some can be lighter in color. They also have two pairs of wings that are about the same size.

5 things you should know about flying termites

Flying Termites are very sneaky and can do a lot of damage before you even realize they’re there. Here are 5 things you should know about flying termites so you can protect yourself and your property.

How do you get flying termites?

Flying termites are attracted to areas that have high humidity and rainfall.

This means that they are commonly found near water sources, such as rivers, lakes, and oceans. They can also be found in moist environments like forests and gardens.

Flying termites, also known as reproductive termites, swarm when there is overcrowding or a lack of adequate food in their colony.

They are looking for new places to start colonies and will often invade homes in large numbers.

If you see flying termites anywhere near your home, it’s important to take action right away to prevent them from causing damage.

They are looking for a new place to start a colony and will often invade homes in search of food and shelter.

You can assist prevent flying termites from invading your home by doing a few things.

If you see winged termites in your home or business, it means that you have an infestation and need to take steps to get rid of them.

How to check for flying termites?

Close up termites or white ants

Flying termites can be highly problematic to spot because they are small and often mistaken for regular ants.

However, there are certain bits you can look out for, including swarms of flying insects, mud tubes on the outer portion of your home, and damaged wood.

If you think you may have flying termites, it is best to contact a professional to help identify them and take care of the problem.

If you’re seeing piles of discarded wings near your home, you likely have flying termites. Mature termites will leave their nests to form new colonies, and during this time, they will discard their wings.

If you are suspicious of an infestation, there are certain things you can look for. In particular, you may notice termite droppings; these are called frass (termite droppings).

Another apparent indication that you may have an infestation is if you see flying termites. This usually means that there is another colony close by, and the termites are flying in order to find new territory.

How long can flying termite infestations last?

Termites are amongst the most destructive insects in dwellings. It takes two to seven years for a colony to mature to the point where it produces alates (winged reproductive termites).

Termite workers eating on wood may cause costly damage to buildings during this time and as long as the colony is active.

Once flying termites have found a place to start a new colony, they will break off their wings and never fly again.

This is because, they need their wings to mate, once they have mated, they will start a new colony.

So an infestation can last as long as they have something to feed on or until the due course of action to get rid of them.

How to get rid of flying termites?

Termites are nesting in the timber.

Flying termites are difficult to find and almost impossible to eradicate on your own completely.

Contacting a professional if you believe you have an infestation is important.

There are a variety of methods professionals use to get rid of flying termites, but the most effective method depends on the severity of the infestation and the specific type of termite.

How to keep flying termites out of your home?

Man Spraying Pesticide Inside The Wooden Cabinet In The Kitchen

Flying termites are a clear indication that you have a thriving colony of termites in your home. Termites can be the root cause of a lot of damage to your home if they are not treated, so it is essential to be aware of the signs and take action if you see them.

You can undertake certain essential tasks to assist you in keeping flying termites out of your home, including regular inspections, keeping your home well-maintained, and using preventative treatments.

Furthermore, make sure that there is no moisture or wood in contact with the ground, keep your home well sealed, and use treatments like Termidor SC to create a barrier around your home.

The most important is to seal any gaps or cracks in the wooden foundation of your home. You should also check eaves, rooflines, and windowsills for damage that could allow termites access into your home.

Flying termites are drawn to moist, dark areas. If you have a roof that is leaky or any other water damage in your home, the flying termites will see that as prime real estate and will likely move in.

It is important to address any water damage issues in your home as soon as possible to prevent an infestation.

You can get rid of a termite infestation by being mindful of your actions.

Summary

Swarms of flying termites are a solid sign of a strong colony nearby, so keep a lookout for them. If you observe a swarm, act quickly by utilizing home treatments or consulting a professional to get rid of the pests and put in place preventative measures to prevent future infestations.

About the author

A biotechnologist by profession and a passionate pest researcher. I have been one of those people who used to run away from cockroaches and rats due to their pesky features, but then we all get that turn in life when we have to face something.