You walk past a window and notice a pile of tiny, papery wings scattered across the sill. Your first thought may be termites, but it’s important to make sure before drawing a conclusion.
Professional termite control in Sarasota, FL, can help determine whether swarmers indicate an active colony nearby. In this guide, Pestguard will explain termite swarm season and what it means for your home.
What Are Termite Swarmers?
Termite swarmers, also called alates, are reproductive termites that leave an established colony to start new ones. These winged termites don’t chew through wood themselves, but seeing them means a mature colony already exists near your home or inside it.
Common Termite Swarming Periods
The timing of termite swarm season varies by species. The periods below can help you understand when different termites are more likely to emerge.
Early Spring Swarms
Some native subterranean termites swarm in early spring. Their colonies develop below ground, and workers may reach a structure through mud tubes built along foundation surfaces.
Late Spring and Summer Swarms
Certain drywood termites swarm from late spring through summer, with activity varying by species and time of day. Unlike subterranean termites, they establish colonies directly inside dry wood without maintaining contact with soil.
Key Differences Between Termite Swarmers and Flying Ants
Use these physical features to distinguish winged termites from flying ants:
- Waist shape: Termites have broad, straight bodies, while ants have narrow, pinched waists.
- Antennae: Termites have straight antennae, while ants have bent or elbowed antennae.
- Wing size: Termites have four wings of similar length, while ants have longer front wings and shorter rear wings.
These features can help you avoid confusing termites with flying ants.
Warning Signs of a Termite Infestation
Check your home for these indicators of possible termite activity:
- Discarded wings: Small piles of silvery, nearly transparent wings may collect near windowsills or light fixtures after a swarm.
- Mud tubes: Thin brown lines may extend from the ground along garage walls or crawl space surfaces.
- Frass: Tiny, sand-like pellets may appear near baseboards or furniture where drywood termites are feeding.
Finding any of these signs should prompt a professional inspection to identify the source.
What To Do After Finding Swarmers
Do not immediately sweep away every wing or spray the area. Take clear photos and record where the swarm appeared. Place a few insects or wings in a sealed container for identification.
Check the surrounding area for additional wings or insects, but avoid disturbing wood or opening walls. Keep children and pets away from any insects you collect. Then contact a termite professional and describe when the swarm appeared.
How Professionals Inspect and Treat Termite Activity
Treatment depends on the termite species and the extent of the infestation. Subterranean termites may be managed with liquid soil treatments or bait systems designed to reach the colony over time. Drywood termites living inside structural wood may require targeted applications or whole-structure fumigation when activity is widespread.
During an inspection, technicians can show you what termite damage looks like in accessible areas. Technicians may check exposed wood and other accessible structural components before recommending treatment. Finding activity during termite swarm season can lead to earlier intervention.
Frequently Asked Questions
These answers address common concerns homeowners may have after noticing possible termite activity.
If You See Swarmers Inside Your Home, Does That Mean You Have an Infestation?
Swarmers or discarded wings indoors often indicate an active colony within the structure. A few insects near an exterior light may have come from a nearby colony instead.
Does Homeowners’ Insurance Cover Termite Damage?
Most homeowners’ insurance policies exclude termite damage because insurers generally consider it preventable through routine maintenance. Review your individual policy to confirm its exclusions.
Can Termites Damage a Concrete Foundation?
Termites do not eat concrete, but they can enter through small cracks or gaps around utility openings. Once inside, they may reach wooden framing or other cellulose-based materials.
Should You Inspect Your Home During Termite Swarm Season?
Yes. Termite swarm season is a good time to look for discarded wings or mud tubes and arrange an inspection if you notice possible activity.
Protect Your Home With Pestguard
Termites can remain a hidden termite threat while feeding inside structural wood and other concealed areas. Pestguard provides inspections and treatment plans based on the termite species, infestation location, and conditions found during the assessment.
Since 1991, our licensed team has handled termite treatment and structural fumigation using company-employed inspectors rather than subcontractors. To learn more about termite swarm season or to arrange a termite inspection, call us at (941) 946-6197.
