Flying termites, also known as reproductive termites, are a type of pest that can be very difficult to get rid of. Here’s how to get rid of flying termites with wings. Flying termites are different from the more common subterranean termites in that they can fly and thus spread easily.
If you see termites flying, it is likely that the problem is more severe and will require professional intervention. Termites with wings signify that the colony is mature and has begun to reproduce. If you see them in your home, it is important to get rid of them right away.
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What is a Winged Termite?
Winged termites are specific termites that have developed wings to fly. They are one of the most common termites and can be found worldwide.
There are many different species of winged termites, but they all share some common characteristics, including their dark coloration and their four wings in two sets.
- Winged termites, or simply flyers, have a veiny appearance and are translucent white.
- They have a thick body that is made up of a single part.
- Winged termites have poor eyesight. As a result, they often swarm in large numbers and can be easily identified by their wings.
What Causes Flying Termites?
An increase in humidity causes flying termites. When the humidity level is high, the wings of the termites will grow, and they will become active and swarm. They are the result of the change in temperature and moisture that alerts the termites to fly.
Termites swarm when they are looking for new territory or trying to reproduce. Termites can cause significant damage to your home if left untreated, so it is important to determine whether or not you have an infestation as soon as possible.
What do flying termites eat?
Flying termites, or swarmers, are the reproductive stage of the termite colony. They are attracted to light and can be found around windows and doors. They consume a range of different materials, including wood and cement.
Flying termites commonly consume wood cellulose material. This means they are specifically drawn to roofs and other areas exposed to the wood.
Flying termites are a sign that an infestation is present in your home. It is important to remove any wood from your home and seal any cracks or holes that they might be able to use to get in.
Are flying termites attracted to light?
Yes, flying termites are attracted to light. They are often drawn to lights inside and outside of buildings. This can be a major problem because it can lead them to swarm near or in the building.
How long do flying termites live?
Termites, both flying and non-flying, go through different stages in their lifetime. The flying termite portion of their lives is deemed a short phase where they mate and search for new areas to colonize.
The flying portion of their lives is short, and they will eventually become workers or reproductive. Once they’ve found a good spot, they will shed their wings and become the non-flying portion of the colony.
Are flying termites bad?
Flying termites are not dangerous in and of themselves, but they are an indicator that there is an active colony nearby. Swarmers are the reproductive form of termites, and they can signal a potential problem.
If left untreated, they may build an entire colony on your property. If you see flying termites, it is important to take action and address the problem before it becomes worse.
What to Do If You Find Discarded Wings by Your Window
Termites are a common problem across the US, and they can cause a lot of damage if they’re not dealt with quickly.
One sign that you might have termites is if you see flying termites around your home. It’s important to regularly check on the subfloor and wood that compose the roof for signs of termite activity.
If you find discarded wings near your home, it may indicate that you have flying termites. Winged termites, or alates, are the reproductive caste of the termite colony, and they will discard their wings once they’ve found a safe place to nest.
- Keep termites from taking over your home by keeping less used areas like crawl spaces, basements, and attics well-ventilated.
- Termites need water to survive, so if you can keep their environment as dry as possible, you will be less likely to have an infestation.
How to Get Rid of Flying Termites With Wings
You can use various methods to get rid of termites, including DIY home remedies and professional extermination services.
However, flying termites are different from the more common subterranean termites and may not be effectively eliminated with DIY methods.
Cedar mulch
There are various ways to get rid of termites, but one popular method is using cedar mulch. Cedar mulch is made from plant and wood materials, and subterranean termites hate the colors and resins found in this mulch.
Cedar mulch has a strong smell that deters termites, and it also helps to block their passages into your home. Cedar mulch has a natural repellent that will keep termites away. It is important to use the right cedar mulch and apply it correctly to be effective.
However, it is important to use well-draining cedar mulch setups, or else you’ll collect excess water and defeat the purpose.
Boric acid
Boric acid is easy to buy and can be used to get rid of flying termites. It can also get rid of other pests in your home. Boric acid is a crystalline powder that is extremely lethal to termites, centipedes, carpenter ants, and other pests.
When ingested, boric acid destroys the pests’ nervous systems. It can be used as a powder or spray and is available at most hardware stores.
However, it’s important to use boric acid in the right areas, typically where the termites are nesting or traveling. Using boric acid in these areas can exterminate the termites and stop them from coming back.
Use orange oil
The most effective way is by using orange oil. It’s an effective termite killer and will help quickly eliminate these pests.
First, purchase some orange oil. Fill a spray bottle with orange oil and spray it directly on any termites you see. Repeat this process until all of the termites are gone.
Attract natural termite predators.
Many different creatures feed on flying termites. Use items found in the environment, such as woodpiles, tree stumps, and leaves. You can also place this bait around your property that will attract these predators.
Look through a list of them and find the ones already living near you. Once you have identified them, research how to attract them to your area so they can help control the termite population.
Clean up your yard.
One of the best ways to get rid of flying termites is to keep your yard clean and free of debris. This way, they will have nowhere to nest and will not be able to survive.
This includes getting rid of any wood or mulch piles, removing any stumps or rotting wood, trimming back overgrown trees and shrubs, and repairing any damage to your home’s foundation.
Winged termites, or reproductive termites, are often seen as signs of an infestation. However, they can also be seen outside an infested area if the conditions are right.
To prevent future winged termites from emerging and causing further damage, it is important to take steps to get rid of the flying termites you currently have and to prevent future infestations.
Ways to Treat an Infestation Once It Has Already Happened
Winged termites, or swarmers, are the reproductive form of the termite colony. They are often seen when an infestation is already present.
One way is to use a cardboard box and a water trap. The box is filled with water, and the top is covered with plastic wrap. Termites will fly into the box thinking it is their new home, but they will drown once they reach the water.
Another way is to use borax powder and orange oil. The powder and oil is lethal to flying termites, and it can be sprayed in areas where the termites are present.
Are flying termites dangerous?
Flying termites, or alates, are not dangerous to humans or pets. They are reproductive termites looking for a new place to start their colony. While they may look alarming, they do not pose a threat and can be easily eliminated.
These winged termites are the reproductive members of the colony, and they can signify an extensive termite colony in the lumber of your home that is mature enough that it is sending its winged termites to look for new territory.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are a few basic things you can do to help prevent termites from entering your home again. Taking care of outdoor maintenance and being aware of the signs of an infestation will go a long way toward protecting your home. Remember that, depending on where you find the winged termites, your next steps should be obvious.
