Termites are often called the “silent destroyers” because of their ability to chew through wood, flooring, and even wallpaper unnoticed. These social insects live in colonies that, at maturity, number from several hundred to several million individuals. In this article, learn more about termites, if termites have wings, and what they look like so you can keep them away from your home.
What are Termites?
Termites are eusocial insects that are classified at the taxonomic rank of infraorder Isoptera. They are known for their wood-consuming habits, which play a crucial role in the ecosystem by recycling decomposed plant matter. Unfortunately, they are also infamous for the damage they can cause to human structures.
Do Termites Have Wings?
Yes, certain members of a termite colony have wings. These are the reproductive termites, also known as alates or swarmers, whose primary role is to leave the colony, mate, and establish new colonies.
What Does a Flying Termite Look Like?
A flying termite has two pairs of long, narrow wings that are equal in size and shape. Their wings are typically white or translucent and can extend beyond their body. When not in flight, the wings lay flat over the abdomen. Flying termites have a soft body usually dark brown or black, with a straight waist and straight antennae.
Termite Castes
A termite colony consists of different castes performing specific roles:
- Workers: These are wingless, sterile, and blind individuals responsible for gathering food and maintaining the nest.
- Soldiers: They defend the colony with their large mandibles and are also wingless and sterile.
- Reproductives (Alates/Swarmers): These are the winged termites that reproduce and spread the colony.
Types of Termites
We mentioned earlier about reproductives so let’s dive in more to find out about them.
Reproductives (Alates/Swarmers)
Reproductives, commonly referred to as alates or swarmers, are the only termites in the colony with fully developed wings. These individuals are sexually mature and ready to reproduce. They are larger than worker and soldier termites and have a darker pigmentation, often a black or dark brown color.
Their primary function within the termite society is to leave their current colonies when environmental conditions are favorable, typically on warm days after rain, and participate in a nuptial flight known as swarming. During this flight, they will mate with partners from different colonies to ensure genetic diversity. After mating, these swarmers will shed their wings, signaling the start of a new colony. The female reproductive becomes the queen of the new colony while the male stays by her side as the king.
Swarmers are often the most visible sign of a termite infestation, as they fly around light sources or are found dead near windowsills and doors. Their emergence from the colony indicates that the termite colony is at least three to five years old and well-established. Spotting swarmers inside your house can often mean there are existing infestations nearby or within the structure itself. Therefore, seeing swarmers should prompt homeowners to take immediate action to assess and address any potential termite problems.
Drywood and Subterranean Termites
Drywood termites infest dry wood and can create colonies without contact with the soil. Subterranean termites require moist environments and contact with the soil to survive, building distinctive tunnels, known as mud tubes, to reach food sources.
Should I Worry About Flying Termites?
Yes, flying termites may indicate an existing termite problem or a potential risk for future infestation. It is a sign that there are mature colonies nearby seeking to expand.
How Do I Get Rid of Flying Termites?
To get rid of flying termites, you can:
- Remove any potential food sources such as lumber or firewood from around your property.
- Seal any cracks or crevices in your home’s foundation.
- Ensure proper ventilation in attics and basements to reduce moisture buildup.
- Regularly inspect for signs of termite activity such as mud tubes or hollowed-out wood.
More Information About Termites
Now that you know about termites having wings, there are other areas to think about. One of those is getting rid of drywood termites. Also, these pests cause a lot of damage and you can use Boracare or Fit Pro aerosol to get rid of them.
Another is how long is the life of a termite. It will depend on the type of termite but most live about 30 years. This is a long time so it is important to get rid of them if they are in your home.
Lastly, it is a good idea to know what eats termites. Ants, aardvarks, anteaters, birds, and reptiles like to feast on termites and they can also help keep them under control.
When Do I Call a Professional?
You should call a professional pest control service if you spot flying termites or discarded wings inside your home. Also, there is evidence of termite damage. Additionally, you want to ensure complete eradication and prevention of future infestations.
Check out the video below about termite swarmers.
Conclusion
While flying termites are a natural occurrence, their presence near or in your home should not be ignored. Understanding what flying termites look like and recognizing the signs of infestation can help prevent extensive and costly damage. If uncertain, it is always advisable to consult with a professional for appropriate termite management and control. Call Enviroquest Home Inspections for a termite inspection and complete home inspections in Harrisburg, PA.