What are termite swarms?
A termite swarm is when a large number of winged termites simultaneously fly from their nest through a crack in a structure or a hole in the ground.
How do you tell the difference between swarming termites and swarming winged ants?
At a glance, termites and ants might look alike. But if you can get an up close view of them, there are obvious differences between these two pests.
- Color – Termites workers range in color from milky white to a yellowish color. The swarmer termite (flying termite) is the only exception, in that it will be black in color. Both the winged swarming and worker carpenter ant will have a darker, black color.
- Body – Ants have bent antennae and their bodies have obvious segmentation. You can easily pick out the head, body (thorax) and bottom (abdomen) of the ants. Termites appear to have only a head and a body, and their antennae are straight. The termite body is not pinched or narrow like the ants’.
- Wings – Both carpenter ant and termite swarmers have two pairs of wings. Carpenter Ants’ wings are about the length of their body, and one pair is longer than the other. Termites, on the other hand, have wings roughly twice the length of their body, and both pairs are the same length and will be a milky white color.
Do swarmers cause damage?
No, swarmers do not usually cause damage. However, they are an indicator that active termite infestation could be present. An active infestation could cause damage.
How will I know if I’ve had a swarm?
If you witness a swarm, you will see lots of half inch dark bugs fly out of a crack toward a source of light. If you are lucky enough to miss the swarm, you will likely find a pile of wings which are shed by the swarming termites and the bodies which will dry up and die quickly in a house.
What should I do if I have a swarm?
Contact Alexander to schedule an appointment for an inspector to come out and inspect your house and recommend appropriate treatment.
Why do termites swarm?
Termites swarm in order to mate and establish new nest sites. However, very few, if any “swarmers” survive long enough to form a new colony, especially if the swarm occurs inside a house.
When do termites swarm?
In Georgia, termites usually swarm in the spring and often after a rain. They usually swarm at the hottest part of the day, between 10am and 3pm.
If you see any evidence of termites at all, do not hesitate to give us a call at 770-448-9696. Or visit our Termite Services page to learn more as well as get a free estimate.