Termites are pests that are a misery for households all around the world. Hearing a buzzing sound near the end of winter indicates that termites are swarming out to reproduce and expand their colonies. Seeing and hearing termites around your property is a worrying sign; a colony could be around, underneath, or within your home. Termite swarming season can span 5-6 months; however, these figures are subject to change. Read on to learn everything you need to know about termites and how Bingham Pest Control can help you get rid of these pests, so you can be prepared to safeguard your family’s home.
What is a Termite Swarming Season?
A termite swarm happens when a large number of winged termites, also known as alates, leave their existing colony to establish new colonies. The alates will congregate in huge numbers to explore a new home and locate partners to create new colonies. Swarmers usually appear only at specific seasons of the year. Although alates do not devour the cellulose present in wood, if they establish a camp on your land, termites may soon begin feasting on your home. A swarm is one of the first signs of termites in a home.
Why do Termites Swarm?
Swarming allows termites to reproduce and establish new colonies near food sources. Termite colonies usually only expand once annually, though several swarms may occur in some situations. When many swarms occur throughout a season, they are often smaller than the first. When the winged termites find a suitable home, they cease swarming and settle in. As the alates develop, their wings will fall off, and they will begin mating to form a new colony.
When do Termites Come Out?
The termite swarming season varies according to the species, although it often happens in late winter or early spring when the temperature begins to warm. If you’re worried about termite activity, March is usually one of the months to watch. However, there is no certain time of year to remember or formula you can use to anticipate termite swarming season.
What are the common signs of termite swarmers?
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Flying Ants
Swarmers are frequently misidentified as flying ants. Termites are commonly referred to as white ants, despite the fact that they are unrelated. One method to tell these insects apart is by their wing size and form. The wings of termites are all the same size, whereas ants have a pair of huge wings and a pair of smaller wings. If you see these insects in or around your home, look for other evidence of termite activity to figure out which species is present.
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Insect Wings that Have Been Discarded
Swarmers drop their wings after finding partners. Keep an eye out for abandoned or discarded insect wings near windowsills and other entryways. Termite swarmer wings are pale-colored and typically 1/4 to 1/2 inch long.
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Other Termite Swarming Indications
- Wood rot in or around your house.
- Mud tubes that can be found both inside and outside of your home.
- Frass, or termite droppings, which might resemble sawdust or sand and are dry and pellet-shaped (depending on the species).
How to Prevent Termite Infestation?
Treatment of identified termite colonies and preventing termites from entering your home are the two main components of preventive techniques. It’s a good idea to start following a few straightforward procedures if you need help controlling termites at home. Here are some things you can take to help avoid termites while enlisting the aid of a professional from Bingham Pest Control is the most effective course of action:
- Check your home for termite damage. This covers other wood damage in your home, such as hollow wood, bubbling paint, frass, and mud tubes. It might be challenging to recognize termite infestations. The National Pest Management Association (NPMA) advises seeking advice from a termite management specialist.
- Ensure that all water drains away from your home. This keeps the soil near your home and your home dry, making it an unsuitable setting for most termites.
- Replace any damaged or wet wood on the porch, storage spaces, or exterior of your home.
- Avoid dumping wood waste in or near your home or yard. If you keep firewood for an interior fireplace outside, make sure to keep it dry and covered and give it a thorough inspection before bringing it inside.
Inspect, Control, and Treat Termites with Bingham Pest Control
The presence of termites inside the home and an infestation are worrying. There are numerous strategies to prevent them from significantly harming your house. However, hiring pest control specialists like Bingham Pest Control is the most effective way to stop termite damage.
If you’re looking for a reliable pest professional, we at Bingham Pest Control provide excellent pest control services that will successfully handle any pest problems you may be experiencing in your home. We can inspect your property to ensure that pests are removed before they do more significant harm. Make an appointment to learn more about our services for treating pests and termites.