How Long Do Flying Termites Swarm?
WouterIf you notice a few winged termites around your home, you may want to look into a termite infestation. Termites are small insects that are most often found in dry dead wood or branches. These insects are known to eat cellulose, and the termite mounds they create can be similar to metropolitan cities.
Termite swarms are groups of winged termites that leave their nest to seek a new home. They fly or crawl around searching for a good place to set up a colony. The winged termites will break their wings once they find a suitable home. They are attracted to light, so a doorway or window is a good place to look for discarded wings.
In most cases, termite swarms occur in the spring or during the rainy season. Depending on the species, multiple swarms might occur in the same year. Most of these swarms are smaller than the first occurrence. A single swarm might last up to 40 minutes. If you see a swarm, you can schedule a free inspection from Terminix.
Generally speaking, subterranean termites swarm during the day. They have wings that extend beyond their bodies, and they are brown to black in color. They are about three-eighths of an inch long. They are not very good fliers, but they do manage to swarm.
Termites swarm to breed and to form new colonies. They do not travel far, but they will build tunnel systems that can span an entire house.
