The problems flying termites can cause to your home

Spotting termites with wings might feel like the insect equivalent of a black cat crossing your path—an omen of bad luck. But if you notice swarms of flying termites in or around your home, take it as a warning sign of two potential threats:

• You may have an active termite infestation
• Your home could be at risk of a new termite colony forming nearby

While the flying termites (swarmers) themselves don’t cause damage, their offspring are the real threat. Once they shed their wings, these young worker termites dig into wooden structures, silently hollowing out wooden beams, flooring, and even furniture. Over time, their feeding can compromise the structural integrity of your home, potentially leading to costly repairs.

Can a home be saved from termites? Absolutely—but early action is key. If you spot signs of termites or swarming activity, don’t wait. Ehrlich’s termite experts are here to help protect your home. Contact us today to learn more!

Protect your home from termites with our termite control solutions

What do swarming termites look like?

Termite swarmers, also known as alates, are the winged reproductive members of a termite colony. They appear in various termite species, including the most common types in the United States: drywood, subterranean, and dampwood termites. 

Swarmers typically range in size from a quarter to a half inch long, including their wings. They have straight antennae, four translucent wings of equal length and shape, and a broad waist. Termites with wings vary by species. Here’s how they differ: 

• Subterranean termite swarmers are usually dark brown to black and measure around ⅜ of an inch to half an inch long.  
• Drywood termite swarmers tend to be light brown or tan and are slightly smaller, around a quarter of an inch to ⅜ of an inch long.
• Dampwood termite swarmers are often larger than both, with a more robust body and a reddish-brown color.

Flying termites vs. flying ants 

Some ant species also swarm around the same time of year as termites, which can make it easy to confuse the two. However, flying ants have bent antennae, a pinched waist, and two pairs of uneven wings, with the forewings being larger than the hindwings. In contrast, flying termites have straight antennae, a broad waist, and two pairs of wings that are equal in size.

Why do termites swarm?

Put simply: Swarming signals the start of a new termite colony.

During certain times of the year, termite colonies produce swarmer termites to expand their population. These termites with wings leave in large numbers to find mates and establish new colonies. Swarming can be triggered by overcrowding, food shortages, or ideal weather conditions like warmth and humidity. Once a male and female pair up, they break off their wings before selecting a nesting site. 

Termites seek an environment that provides the essentials for survival: moisture, shelter, and a reliable food source (wood and cellulose materials). 

• Subterranean termites, the most common species, prefer damp soil near a food source and typically establish colonies underground. 
• Drywood termites seek out dry, untreated wood and infest structures without needing soil contact. 
• Dampwood termites require high-moisture wood, often found in decaying logs or water-damaged structures.

What can help flying termites start a colony in or near your home? 

• Excess moisture from leaks, poor drainage, or humidity
• Wood-to-soil contact, like untreated siding or firewood near the foundation
• Mulch and dense landscaping which trap moisture

Signs of a termite swarm

Termite swarmers are attracted to light and often gather near windows, doors, and light fixtures. Outdoors they may appear near the foundation, especially after rain or in humid weather. Key signs of a termite swarm can include:

• Discarded wings near windows, doors, or floors.
• Dead swarmers around lights or entry points.
• Swarmers emerging from walls, wood, or soil.

Seeing termite swarms in your house or near it can suggest an active termite infestation. If you notice signs of their presence or suspect an infestation: 

1. Collect a few termites for identification.
2. Inspect for other signs, like mud tubes or wood damage.
3. Call a pest control professional immediately.

Swarmers don’t cause damage, but they signal a growing colony in the area. Early action is crucial to help prevent costly structural damage.

HEADS UP: If you see winged termites indoors, you may have an existing problem. In other words, you may have termite-damaged timber or damaged furniture in your home.
 

When do termites swarm?

Termite swarm season typically begins in February and lasts through the summer months, coinciding with rising temperatures. Young adult termites emerge from their nests in large groups as the weather gets warmer. Some species swarm during the day, while others are drawn to light at night. Drywood termites, in particular, often swarm after rain at specific times of the year.

How long do termites swarm for?

The length of a termite swarm can vary based on species and environmental conditions. If there's an active infestation, termites may swarm out of the walls for 20 minutes to an hour, and this can continue for a few days, depending on the colony's size. If you miss the swarm, you might notice discarded wings, which is a key indicator of an active termite swarm in your house.

How to get rid of swarmer termites

Regular home inspections and moisture control are key to keeping termites away. Below are a few things you can do to help protect your home and get rid of termites:

• Plan an annual termite inspection – Having an inspection once a year can help determine if termites are present, and allows a professional to create a treatment plan before the infestation worsens. 
• Fix moisture issues – Repair leaks, improve drainage, and reduce excess condensation.
• Monitor HVAC units – Watch for condensation buildup around heating and cooling systems.
• Remove wood debris – Clear out fallen trees, stumps, leaf litter, and construction materials from your yard.
• Avoid wood-to-soil contact – Keep wooden structures, siding, and fences elevated from the ground.
• Store firewood properly – Keep firewood stacked at a distance from your home.
• Use treated wood – Avoid untreated lumber for decks, sheds, or other structures.

If you suspect termites in your home, taking immediate action is crucial:

• Schedule a professional termite inspection – Early detection can help prevent extensive damage.
• Look for signs of infestation – Discarded wings, mud tubes, hollow wood, or frass (termite droppings) indicate termite activity.
• Do not disturb an active colony – Disturbing termites may cause them to relocate and spread.

Ehrlich’s termite experts understand how to get rid of flying termites and will create a customized treatment plan based on your home’s unique needs. Contact us today for a professional termite inspection and protection plan.