Flying Termites After Rain

After a rainstorm, you may notice small insects flying around your home. They are most commonly known as the flying termites. Flying termites are social insects made up of different castes: workers, soldiers, king, queen, and last but not least, alates. These insects are especially active after heavy rain and can fly in large numbers. They swarm up from the ground to mate and build new colonies. They are attracted to light, so you often see them near windows or doors. While they may look like flying ants, they are quite different. Let’s take a closer look at these fascinating creatures.

What do Flying Termites Look Like?

The flying termite has an appearance that is unique to this insect. They are usually light gold and have six legs, with two tiny straight with slightly curved antennas, and can usually be identified by their thick body, which is made of only one part. These creatures also sport large wings attached near either side of their body. In addition, they are translucent, size ranging 3 centimeters per wing, and have a veiny appearance.

Flying termites can be seen when their colony swarms. A swarm occurs as established colonies produce winged male and female insects to reproduce. When the fertilized termites finish mating, they shed their wings and establish new colonies. If you see flying objects in your home that appear like tiny white dust bunnies, then this could mean there’s an active colony underway!

Why do Flying Termites Suddenly Appear?

You may have witnessed swarms of winged termites, especially when the ambient air temperatures rise. However, flying termites usually only swarm during certain times of the year, and this is typically when the weather is hot and humid, usually during summer and spring.

This change in air pressure triggers their emergence from within some forms of timber, and they embark on a nuptial flight to find another nest with more mating partners nearby!

What is the Difference Between Flying Termites and Flying Ants?

Flying termites are very similar in appearance to flying ants. However, there are some key differences between flying termites and flying ants. First, flying termites have a straight antenna, while flying ants have a curved antenna. In addition, flying termites’ wings are of equal length and width, while the two top wings on the flying ant are usually double the size of the bottom two wings.

Flying termites’ have a different color and are a slightly bigger version than the ant. It has only two parts: head and body, unlike flying ants whose bodies are divided into three sections, body, head, and tail.

Do Flying Termites Cause Damage?

Flying termites are not considered a threat to your home and do not directly cause damage to homes. However, if you see flying termites, it is an indication that there is a termite problem on your property. These insects swarm from their nests to mate and start new colonies. If you see them, it’s important to contact a pest control professional to have your home inspected and treated for termites.

Swarming termites also don’t pose a danger to humans. They have no biting or chewing mouthparts, which means they do not bite and do not cause any physical damage to your home.

How Long do Flying Termites Live?

Flying termites only live for a short period of time. Once they leave their nest, they mate and then die. Their lifespan is only long enough to fulfill their reproductive duties. After that, they will wither away and die within a few days or weeks.

Flying termites play an important role in the ecosystem. They help to decompose dead wood and other plant matter, which helps to fertilize the soil. They are an important food source for many animals, including birds, reptiles, and small mammals. In addition, they help to pollinate flowers.

How to get rid of Flying Termites?

There are a few things you can do to prevent flying termites from taking up residence on your property:

Keep an eye out for swarmers. If you see flying termites, it's essential to contact a pest control professional right away.
Reduce moisture in and around your home. Termites are attracted to moisture, so it's essential to keep your property as dry as possible.
Fix any leaks or standing water on your property.
Remove any wood or debris that is touching your home.
Inspect the exterior of your home for cracks or holes and seal them up.
Have your home regularly inspected by a pest control professional.