Termite swarms can be a scary sight if you spot one near your home. But what exactly are they? In this blog post, we’ll go over what termite swarms are, why they happen, and what to do if you see one.
What are Termite Swarms?
Termite swarms are a part of the reproductive cycle of certain termite species. During a swarm, winged reproductive termites, known as alates, emerge from established colonies in large numbers.
Why Do Termite Swarms Happen?
Termite swarms usually happen in the spring or early summer when it’s warm and humid. However, the exact timing can vary depending on the termite species and location. Swarming is triggered by factors such as temperature, humidity, and even light.
The primary purpose of a termite swarm is reproduction and the establishment of new colonies. Once the reproductive termites, or alates, emerge from their parent colony, they engage in a nuptial flight, during which they mate. After mating, the pairs land, shed their wings, and begin searching for suitable nesting sites to establish new colonies.
Understanding the Types of Termites
It’s important to note that not all termites swarm. There are three main types of termites within a colony: workers, soldiers, and reproductives. The reproductives are responsible for swarm events.
- Workers: These termites are responsible for foraging, feeding other members of the colony, and maintaining the nest.
- Soldiers: Soldiers defend the colony against threats such as ants or other predators. They have enlarged mandibles, or heads, for this purpose.
- Reproductives: These are the alates that participate in swarms and establish new colonies.
What do I do if I see a termite swarm near my home?
- Remain calm! While seeing a termite swarm can be alarming, the presence of alates does not necessarily mean you have an infestation in your home.
- Observe and identify: Take note of the insects’ appearance and behavior to determine if they are indeed termites.
- Contact a professional: If you suspect you have a termite problem, it’s important to contact a licensed pest control professional for an inspection and appropriate treatment.
Early detection and professional treatment are key to avoiding termite damage and the need for costly repairs. Learn about how Waynes termite treatment, which is a highly effective baiting system, can help preserve the integrity of your home! For a thorough termite inspection, contact us online, or call 1-866-929-6371.
