Termite Swarmers
Termite swarmers are adult termites that have sprouted wings and will fly in a swarm to find their own new homes and start their families. Swarmers in a sense are nature’s way of reminding you that termite are around.
Swarmers originate from a termites nest and can appear outoors or indoors. If you do see them outdoors, it means that the termite nest may not be too far away from where you have seen the swarmes. If you happen to spot swarmers indoors such as in your house or office, it is an indicator that the termites nest is very like within your home or office building.
What do swarmers look like?
Examining them closely, you will see that they have two sets of uniform wings, a broad waist and straight-bead like antennae. Despite having wings, termiteswarmers are poor fliers and will not fly far. That is why their presence means that the termite nest from which they came from is in close proximity.
Are termite swarmers harmful?
Termite swarmers are harmles, infact they are quite helpful because their sighting confirms that one could already have an infestation or may want to inspect the yard for the presence of a termites nest.
Swarmers do not live long and will die shortly after you have spotted them. They can appear in small numbers or in the hundreds. Many times you may not even spot them when they are alive but all you will see are remnants of their body parts on the window seal or floor.
Swarmers are more of a nuisance than a threat. Although killing them will take care of the immidiate nuisance, it does not take care of the underlying problem of termites in your home or in the yard and potential damage they are already causing or about to cause.
What should you do when you see termite swarmers?
One should first confirm that the swarmers are indeed termite swarmers. That is necessary because other ant species also produce swarmers. To an untrained eye, they all look similar. You can catch one as a specimen. Or if you find remnants of body parts only, you can place them in a small jar or wrap them in soft tissue paper and take the specimen to a licensed pest officer. They will be able to confirm whether the swarmers at your home or yard are indeed termite swarmers.
If it is confirmed that they are termite swarmers, then it is prudent to have a licensed pest company inspect your home and grounds for the presence of termites. Once the nest is found indoors or outdoors, the pest officer will propose ways in which to deal and with the termites on your property.
Although there are many methods to rid your home of termites, the officer will often use an appropriate soil treatment with a liquid insecticide or may opt to install a baiting system. Such methods and other are dependent on the extent of the infestation.
Conclusion
Termites if left unchecked are a destructive force that will destroy the structural integrity of your home. The next time you see termite swarmers inside your home or on the yard, take it as a reminder to have the property inspected for the presence of termites. Then if necessary, have the property treated accordingly for termites.
