What to do when you see termites swarming?
DO:
- Try to contain them. This can be done by shutting the door to the room that they are swarming in.
- Vacuum them up and throw the full bag into the garbage. The swarmers in the bag will die and they can not spread.
- Save a bag full of insects to show a trained inspector.
- Call a reputable termite company.
What time of year do termites swarm?
Spring
Spring is the swarming season for most subterranean termites. Most species of subterranean termites swarm during the spring and summer months, typically on a warm day with calm winds after a rainfall.
How many days do termite swarms last?
Swarms typically last a few weeks, although the start and finish can vary, depending on weather patterns and other local conditions. That said, seeing flying termites near your home is a reason for concern, as the closer these voracious pests get to your home, the bigger risk you run of having an infestation.
What color are termite swarmers?
Termite swarmers can be black. Swarmers of the most common species, subterranean termites, have black bodies and clear, veined wings. Drywood swarmers are generally not dark black in color.
How do you stop a termite swarm?
During swarming season, keep doors and windows shut as much as possible. Keep outdoor lights turned off at night also as they will attract swarming termites. Keep firewood stored at least 20 feet away from your home and elevated off the ground. Keep plants a few feet away from your home.
How do I stop swarming termites?
Do termite swarmers bite?
Swarming termites are the key to where the colony is active. Instead, calmly and visually inspect for where the swarmers might be entering. Mark any areas with tape. Swarming termites cannot bite or sting and are incapable of causing any harm to you, your children, or your pets.
How do you get rid of swarming termites outside?
If you have swarms of alates outside your house invest in zappers. Flying termites love the light and are easily attracted to them. Make sure the zapper is the only light source in proximity and leave it on for the night.
Why do flying termites mean serious trouble?
Unlike flying ants, flying termites spell serious trouble many homeowners because their presence suggests one thing: An already present termite infestation or an impending termite infestation waiting to happen at any moment, with innumerable termites hiding in great masses within walls and the various nooks, crannies, and cracks found in homes.
What do termites look like?
Termites can look like ants, however, they can be distinguished by their visible wings, straight antennae compared to ants bent antennae, relatively thick waists, hard exoskeletons, and very dark color. Homes are always exposed to not just weather, but to insects as well.
What is termite with wings?
Termites with wings are referred to as swarmers. Swarming termites have a body divided into two parts, with four wings of equal length. Swarmers are specialized members of a termite colony, whose job it is to propagate the species. They are referred to as swarmers because they move and act as one entity,…
How do termites fly?
The termites enter the winged form when they are ready to mate and fly from one colony to another. The winged form is also known as the alate form. These wings fall off when they have found a new colony to settle in and the termite’s body is left with small stubs instead of full blown wings.