What Are Flying Termites Called?

Flying termites, also known as alates, are reproductive members of a termite colony. They leave existing colonies to reproduce and establish new ones elsewhere. These termites are not separate species but rather the sexually reproducing members of the colony. The colonising flight occurs during moderate temperatures and high humidity, with the main times of year when termites are seen flying.

There are over 2000 known species of termites, with the most common types being subterranean termites, which live in underground colonies or damp, hidden places aboveground, and formosan termites, which are the most aggressive and aggressive. Flying termites have a straight waist and straight antennae, with two pairs of wings. They emerge from existing colonies to mate and form new nests elsewhere.

Termites with wings, also known as swarmers or alates, are not immediately produced in a colony; it can take up to four years for a colony to begin developing swarmers. They are small yellow-brown insects with smoky gray or brown wings and are around ¼ to ⅜ inches long.

To get flying termites, one must first identify them as alates or reproductive stage termites. These termites are not immediately produced in a colony and can take up to four years for a colony to develop swarmers.

In Indonesia, flying termites are also known as laron by Indonesians. The flying patterns and habits of termites are known as swarms.

How Long Does Flying Termite Season Last?

Drywood termites and the subterranean species R. hageni typically swarm from late summer to fall, with peak activity occurring between August and November. Different subterranean termite species have varied swarming times, often lasting just 2-3 months in spring and summer, allowing alates to mate and establish new colonies quickly, often after rainstorms in humid weather. It's essential to stay vigilant, as drywood termites can swarm outside the usual spring and summer window.

While southeastern and West Indian drywood termites swarm in spring, Desert and Western drywood termites do so at different times. The reproductive phase of a termite colony lasts around 3 to 6 years with swarming primarily happening during daylight in spring for subterranean termites and in late summer or early fall for drywood species.

Swarming generally peaks in spring due to favorable temperatures and humidity. Understanding termite behavior can help homeowners identify when they could invade homes for shelter during colder months. Swarming typically lasts from a few days to a few weeks, heavily influenced by local weather conditions. Most subterranean termites swarm during spring and summer, while drywood termites' aggressive swarming takes place in the late summer to fall.

In regions like Indonesia, ideal weather allows for year-round termite activity, making it crucial to recognize their swarming patterns, which usually last 30-40 minutes as they are attracted to light sources.

What Does A Flying Termite Swarm Mean?

A swarm of flying termites, or "alates," near a home could suggest the presence of a large termite colony nearby. Residents who find multiple alates indoors, observe shed wings around doors and windows, or see termites emerging from the exterior may be dealing with an active infestation. Swarming typically occurs during the daytime, especially in spring, when mature termite colonies produce reproductive adults to mate and establish new colonies.

A termite swarm involves numerous termites flying towards a light source, generally lasting 30 to 40 minutes. Such swarms indicate a reproductive stage, as the alates leave their main colony to find mates and start new nests. Mistaken for flying ants, flying termites pose a significant threat to homes, making identification crucial for effective intervention. Seeing a swarm suggests an existing infestation or that termites are attempting to invade.

Discarded wings are a reliable indicator of termite presence, as swarmers shed their wings after landing. Homeowners are encouraged to contact pest control services like Orkin, which specialize in flying termite prevention and treatment. Recognizing swarmers is essential; if ignored, the resulting infestation could lead to serious damage. Therefore, taking swift action upon witnessing a termite swarm is essential for maintaining a termite-free environment.

What Smell Do Flying Termites Hate?

To naturally eliminate flying termites from your home, essential oils like orange oil can be effective due to their strong scents that termites find repulsive. Mix orange oil with water in a spray bottle and apply it to infested areas; this citrus scent not only repels termites but can also kill them on contact. Other scents termites dislike include cedarwood, peppermint, cypress, and pine, which can deter these pests when incorporated into pest control strategies. Common organic repellents include neem oil, vinegar, and garlic. Termites also avoid direct sunlight and dry heat, so exposure to these conditions can be beneficial.

For mulch alternatives, consider rubber mulch, river rock, or pea gravel. If wood mulch is preferred, cedar mulch is recommended because its natural resin emits a smell that termites dislike. Additionally, lemon juice can be effective, but ensure it is fresh to avoid attracting them instead. Peppermint oil is another strong deterrent, also effective in repelling termites.

Several essential oils, such as clove, eucalyptus, and tea tree oil, have been identified as powerful termite repellents due to their potent aromas. Research suggests these scents can disrupt termite activity, providing a safe, non-toxic alternative to chemical pesticides. Utilizing these natural methods can mitigate infestations while maintaining a healthy living environment, offering an eco-friendly approach to termite control.

What Attracts Flying Termites?

Flying termites, like many insects, are attracted to light sources, which leads to their swarming around linear illumination. They commonly enter homes through downlights and can be found in gardens or near buildings, indicating nearby termite colonies. Their presence near windows, doors, vents, and fixtures signifies mature colonies. After rain, flying termites congregate around food sources containing cellulose, primarily wood, with some preferring damp, soft wood or residing in the ground.

They also seek moisture and decaying wood, making untreated wood and wet environments particularly appealing. Overall, flying termites are drawn to light and specific environmental cues, showcasing their attraction to moisture and wood, which are significant factors in their behavior.

Does Insurance Cover Termite Damage?

As a homeowner, pest control, particularly regarding termites, is your responsibility. Home insurance generally does not cover termite damage, which can be expensive to repair, as it's considered preventable rather than sudden or accidental. While some policies may cover damage caused by wild animals or certain covered perils, termite damage typically falls outside this scope. It's essential to learn how to identify, prevent, and address termite infestations effectively.

Understanding the different types of termites, recognizing signs of invasion, and implementing preventive measures can help protect your home. In situations where termite damage occurs, homeowners may explore valid claims if the damage resulted from a covered peril, but standard policies usually exclude such infestations. According to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), this exclusion is standard across most homeowners, condo, or renters insurance policies.

Therefore, the costs associated with termite removal and damage repair generally fall on the homeowner. To ensure home protection, educating yourself on prevention techniques and the specifics of your insurance coverage is crucial. Being proactive can save you from potential significant expenses linked to termite infestations.

How To Get Rid Of Flying Termites?

Seeing flying termites in your home can be concerning, as it often indicates a nearby termite infestation that requires swift action. While flying termites themselves don't cause direct damage, their presence usually signals more significant termite activity in the area. To address the issue, start by identifying the termite colony, as understanding their source is essential for effective management. Here are some practical steps to follow:

1. Prevention Measures: The best way to manage flying termites is by preventing their entry. Use weatherproof seals under doors, silicone caulking for gaps, and bug mesh to block possible entry points. Keep mulch away from your home foundation and store firewood securely.
2. Natural Remedies: There are several natural solutions you can apply to infected areas. Spray a mixture of white vinegar or a Boric acid solution directly onto the affected areas. For added deterrent, cayenne pepper can be sprinkled along termite trails. Additionally, planting rubber mulch around your garden can help deter termites since they prefer natural wood.
3. Moisture Management: Termites thrive in humid environments. Fix any plumbing leaks, ensure proper drainage, and ventilate areas prone to moisture. This will create a less hospitable environment for termites and reduce their likelihood of infestation.
4. Professional Assistance: If the situation escalates or if you have difficulty managing the infestation on your own, it’s advisable to contact termite control professionals like Terminix. They have the expertise and resources to effectively eliminate termite colonies and prevent their return.
5. Recognizing Signs of Infestation: Keep an eye out for warning signs indicating a termite problem. Hollow-sounding wood, mud tubes around your home's foundation, or wood shavings can all point to an infestation. Being vigilant will help you address the issue before it worsens.
6. Education on Flying Termites: Understanding the physical characteristics of flying termites can aid in their identification. They typically possess four wings of equal length and distinctive antennae. Distinguishing them from flying ants—which are often confused with termites—is crucial in addressing the problem effectively.

In summary, if you spot flying termites in your home, act quickly by sealing entry points, managing moisture, applying natural remedies, and seeking professional help if needed. Taking these proactive measures can significantly reduce the risk of an infestation and protect your home from potential damage.

Why Do Flying Termites Suddenly Appear?

The sudden appearance of flying termites, or swarmers, is often linked to specific breeding conditions influenced by the weather, such as warm temperatures and high humidity, usually following rainfall. Understanding these conditions can help demystify their emergence. Flying termites serve as a critical warning sign of potential infestations, indicating a mature colony that is ready to expand. Typically, this occurs three to four years after a colony's establishment.

The swarming process, characterized by winged termites leaving their nests to mate, can be triggered by environmental factors. Commonly, flying termites are drawn to light, so they often congregate around windows and outdoor lights, attempting to escape the enclosed spaces and embark on nuptial flights. If you observe flying termites in your home, it’s vital to recognize that this could signify a deeper termite problem. Additionally, other signs of infestation may precede the emergence of swarmers.

Taking preventive measures and addressing infestations promptly can protect your property. Terminix provides valuable insights into termite behavior and effective protection strategies for homeowners. Overall, understanding termite swarming and its triggers can help in safeguarding your home against these pests.

Will Termites Go Away On Their Own?

Termites will not go away on their own. Unlike other pests that require a food source inside your home to survive, termites consider your home their primary food source. Once they establish themselves in your property, they will continue to feed on the wooden structures until significant damage occurs. While some other pests may leave if conditions change, termites are social insects that thrive in colonies and will remain as long as there's wood to consume.

If you suspect a termite infestation, it's vital to take immediate action. Leaving them unchecked could lead to severe structural damage, making professional intervention essential for effective eradication. Termites are not deterred by high temperatures as long as those conditions remain livable; they can survive in hot, ventilated areas like attics, unless temperatures rise above 180°F.

It's important to note that while termite colonies can naturally die out over time, it is unwise to rely on this as a method of control. Without proper treatment, there is no guarantee they won't return to re-infest your home, as their presence can linger even when they are not visible. Termite swarm seasons do not mean they have disappeared; they simply may be hidden from view.

In summary, termites will not go away on their own once they have a suitable habitat and a reliable food source. While termite colonies may occasionally die out, most infestations require specialized treatment to ensure they are fully eliminated and to prevent further damage to your property. Neglecting a termite issue could potentially lead to devastating repercussions for the structural integrity of your home, making prompt action crucial in managing termite threats effectively.

What Gets Rid Of Flying Termites?

If you spot flying termites, also known as "swarmers" or "alates," there are effective methods to eliminate them. Begin by sealing all entry points to prevent further access, as prevention is more effective than treatment. Consider using spray solutions like white vinegar or Boric acid directly on affected areas. A natural approach includes applying a Borax solution, as Borax is toxic to termites. Additionally, using orange oil can kill termites and their eggs when sprayed on surfaces they frequent.

To deter termites, plant rubber mulch around your garden since it’s less appealing than real wood. Incorporate cayenne pepper as a spice to disrupt their trails. Always store firewood away from your home and ensure mulch is kept at least four feet from the foundation. It’s crucial to maintain dry and ventilated attics and basements to create an unfavorable environment for termites. For persistent infestations, consider contracting a reputable pest control service for an effective anti-termite treatment to ensure thorough removal of these pests.

Should I Worry About Winged Termites?

Seeing flying termites, known as swarmers, in your home typically indicates a mature termite colony nearby. These reproductive termites are looking to create new colonies, which can potentially lead to significant structural damage if not addressed promptly. While it's reassuring to know that winged termites do not bite and aren't directly harmful to your family or pets, their presence serves as a warning sign of an underlying termite problem that could compromise your home's integrity.

If you encounter winged termites, particularly in the western US, it is crucial to take notice. They can travel long distances to find mates, so their appearance around your property should raise concern about potential termite activity. Although swarmers themselves do not cause damage, recognizing them means it’s time for a thorough inspection for active infestations.

Typically seen during spring and summer, these swarmers signal the potential establishment of new colonies, which can lead to extensive infestations. Spotting flying termites may not necessarily mean you have an existing infestation, but indeed points to the presence of termites nearby.

In addition, look for discarded wings around your home, which are the number one indicator of flying termites. If you notice winged termites or their discarded wings, take immediate caution as this may signify the onset of a destructive infestation. While flying termites do not carry diseases, they can provoke allergic reactions or asthma in sensitive individuals, emphasizing the importance of addressing any signs of termite activity promptly to protect your home from significant damage.

Do Swarming Termites Mean Infestation?

Los insectos más pequeños son las hormigas, pero hay cuatro desgraciadamente muertos termiteros en esta repisa, tres con alas y uno sin. Encontrar termiteros dentro de un edificio es una señal clara de que hay una infestación activa de termitas y que necesita tratamiento profesional. Aunque los termiteros en swarming no indican automáticamente una infestación, sí pueden ser un signo de que hay colonias activas cerca. Swarming es una parte natural del ciclo de vida de las termitas y es esencial para la reproducción de la colonia.

Los termiteros, también conocidos como alados, son miembros reproductores adultos alados de una colonia de termitas. Este comportamiento, que involucra a los termiteros dejando su colonia en un grupo grande para aparearse y establecer nuevas colonias, se conoce como swarming y suele ocurrir en ciertas épocas.

A pesar de ser molestos, especialmente cuando ocurre dentro de casa, los termiteros son un indicador de un posible problema, en lugar de ser un problema en sí mismos. No causan daños estructurales. Por el contrario, swarmer, al volar por falta de espacio y alimento, puede señalar que están buscando un nuevo hogar, lo cual podría indicar una infestación. Para muchos propietarios, un swarm puede ser la señal más visible de una infestación de termitas.

Aunque ver termiteros es motivo de preocupación, su presencia no siempre significa que haya infestación activa en su propiedad; sólo un profesional puede determinar esto. Si se observan termiteros, se recomienda contactar a una empresa especializada en control de plagas, ya que podría requerirse exterminación profesional.