Termites – When Do They Swarm?
WouterTermites, wood destroying insects, can cause damage to your property. They can destroy wood flooring and even wood structures. They are known to swarm outdoors during warmer weather. They can also enter your home through doors and windows. Regular inspections and treatments can help prevent them from entering your home.
The termite swarming cycle is a process that occurs over several days. When the right conditions are met, swarmers emerge from a colony and fly to find a mate. Typically, there is a large launch on the first day and then smaller releases over the next couple of days. Depending on the species, the number of swarmers released can vary.
Generally, swarms are composed of females and males. Females lay eggs in a new colony, which are then consumed by workers. The queen also cares for the brood. After the first brood matures, the colony begins to grow.
During the spring and summer, subterranean termites swarm. These insects nest in small underground tubes. They swarm when the weather is warm and humid. They are often mistaken for ants, but they are not the same.
During a swarm, termites take flight to find a mate. Some may die in the process. They are not very good fliers. The swarmers may land on open surfaces or on window sills. They may also swarm into cars, trees, and buildings.
The number of swarmers varies depending on the size of the colony. When the colony is large, hundreds or thousands of swarmers may emerge at once.
