Detection of Termites

Winged Reproductive Swarms
Termites may not be noticed by the homeowner until they begin to swarm. This is the stage when winged reproductives leave the nest during the process of mating and forming new colonies. They are most likely seen in spring and during the daytime, and there will be a large number of them. The winged termites can be easily confused with flying ants. Control measures for each is different so it is important to closely examine them in order to determine which type is present. Flying ants have thin waists, bent antennae and two sizes of wings. Termites have thick waists, straight antennae and both wings are the same size. (See diagram below.)

If you see winged termites inside your house it is probable that your house is infested with them. The wings fall off the termites very soon after they arrive, so the presence of wings indicate a new colony even if no termites are seen. Light attracts swarming termites, so likely places to find these wings are near doors or windows. They may also be stuck to cobwebs. If you see winged termites coming out of the ground outside your house don’t panic, but you will want to check to see if they have made their way into your house. Most home infestations come from colonies that are established in soil.