Key Points:
- Not all termites can fly; only reproductive termites (alates) have wings.
- Flying termites are often a sign of an established colony nearby.
- Termite swarms are seasonal, triggered by humidity and warm temperatures.
- Seeing flying termites indoors could indicate a serious infestation.
- Flying termites do not cause damage directly but are a signal of potential problems.
Do Termites Fly?
Yes, some termites do fly, but only during a specific phase of their life cycle. The termites you see flying are called alates, also known as swarmers. These winged termites are reproductive members of the colony, and their primary role is to mate and start new colonies.
Why Do Some Termites Fly?
Flying termites, or alates, serve a specific purpose in the termite colony. Here’s why they take flight:
- Mating and Reproduction: Alates leave their original colony to find mates and start new colonies.
- Seasonal Timing: Their flights, called swarms, often occur during warm, humid months, usually after rainfall.
- Short-Lived Flight: Once they find a mate, they shed their wings and begin building a new colony.
Types of Termites and Their Flying Abilities
| Termite Type | Can They Fly? | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Alates (Swarmers) | Yes | Reproductive termites that leave the colony to start new ones. |
| Worker Termites | No | Responsible for gathering food and maintaining the colony; they do not fly. |
| Soldier Termites | No | Defend the colony from predators; they do not have wings or the ability to fly. |
| King and Queen Termites | No | Remain in the colony after mating; do not fly after shedding wings. |
Termite Swarming: A Key Indicator of Infestation
If you see flying termites, especially indoors, this could be a red flag. Here are a few important points to consider:
- Flying termites indoors typically mean a colony has already been established in or near your home.
- Outdoor swarms may indicate that termites are present in the area but haven’t necessarily invaded your home yet.
- Discarded wings are a common sign of termite activity; after swarming, alates shed their wings and settle down.
How to Identify Flying Termites
Flying termites, or alates, can be identified by their:
- Two pairs of wings: All of the same size, unlike flying ants whose front wings are larger.
- Straight antennae: Termites have straight, beaded antennae compared to the elbowed antennae of ants.
- Broad waists: Termites have a more uniform body shape, whereas ants have a pinched waist.
How Long Do Termites Fly?
Flying termites don’t stay airborne for long. Once they’ve found a mate, they shed their wings and settle down to build a new colony. You may notice:
- Swarming typically lasts for 30 minutes to a few hours depending on environmental factors.
- After landing, termites shed their wings, which often results in piles of wings around windowsills or doors.
How to Handle Flying Termites
If you see flying termites in or around your home, take these steps to minimize the risk of infestation:
- Seal entry points: Check for gaps in windows, doors, and cracks in the foundation.
- Fix moisture problems: Termites are attracted to moist environments, so repair leaks and reduce humidity levels in your home.
- Remove wood debris: Keep mulch, firewood, and wood debris away from the foundation of your home.
- Call a professional: A termite inspection can help you determine the scope of the problem and recommend the best treatment options.
Conclusion
Flying termites are a natural part of termite life cycles, but their presence is often a warning sign of an existing colony nearby. Knowing how to identify and respond to swarming termites is crucial in preventing or managing infestations in your home.
