What is a Termite Swarm? Signs, Timing, and When to Call a Professional

Spotting a termite swarm around your home can be alarming—what’s worse, it begs the question: Could there be a termite infestation? These sudden bursts of winged bugs aren’t just a nuisance; they could be a sign of a much larger problem hidden within your walls or foundation. Before taking next steps, it’s important to understand the ins and outs of a termite swarm and what it means for your home. 

What is a Termite Swarm?

A termite swarm is a natural part of the termite life cycle where a group of reproductive termites, called alates, leave their existing colony to mate and establish new colonies. Termite swarms typically occur in the spring or early summer, and are triggered by warm temperatures and recent rainfall.

To humans, a termite swarm looks like a large collection of flying insects heading in one direction. If you see a termite swarm, don’t panic. These insects will not bite or harm people, but you should consult a pest control professional to ensure there isn’t an infestation nearby.

Why Do Termites Swarm?

Termite swarms occur when a mature colony reaches full capacity and it’s ready to reproduce and expand. This event typically happens once a year, depending on the species and size of the colony. 

During the swarming season, the colony produces hundreds or even thousands of alates, whose sole purpose is to leave the nest, find a mate, and establish a new colony. These alates live just below the surface of the soil until environmental conditions, like warmth and humidity, signal that it’s time to take flight. Interestingly, many colonies in the same region prepare to swarm around the same time.

How Long Do Termite Swarms Last?

Termite swarms are surprisingly brief events, often lasting only 30 to 40 minutes. Still, although the visible swarm may vanish quickly, the aftermath can be telling. Discarded wings around windowsills, doors, or other entry points are a clear sign of termite activity. 

It's important not to dismiss these subtle indicators, as a termite infestation can continue behind-the-scenes long after the swarm ends. If you notice signs of a termite swarm, it’s a good idea to contact a professional pest control company to assess your home for termite activity.

Types of Termite Swarms

There are several types of termites that can exhibit swarming behavior. Here’s how to differentiate between them.

Subterranean Termites

Subterranean termite swarms are the most common and occur in the spring during the daytime, especially after rainfall. These termites live in underground colonies and rely on moist soil to survive. Their swarming behavior is triggered by warm temperatures and humidity, making spring the prime season for reproduction and expansion.

Drywood Termites

Drywood termite swarms are much smaller than those of subterranean termites, often consisting of fewer than 100 swarmers. Drywood termite swarms usually take place in late summer or early fall and often occur at night. Their swarms are smaller and less frequent, making them harder to detect until considerable damage is done.

Dampwood Termites

Dampwood termite swarms are less common and occur during the summer. These termites are drawn to wet, decaying wood and are most often found in forested areas or homes with high moisture levels. 

Though they can appear near homes, they rarely infest residential structures because the wood inside isn’t moist enough to support their colonies. That said, they may still be found in damp wood nearby, such as fences or utility poles.

Termites vs. Flying Ants

When it comes to identifying a termite swarm, a common challenge is telling the difference between flying ants versus termites. While both swarm during similar times, they have defining characteristics to differentiate them: Flying ants have bent antennae, narrow waists, and two pairs of uneven wings, while termites have straight antennae, thick waists, and two pairs of equal-length wings.

When it comes to damage, flying ants nest in wood but don’t eat it, making them far less destructive. Termites consume wood from the inside out, which can lead to serious structural issues if they go undetected. If you spot a swarm and aren’t sure which insect you’re dealing with, it’s best to get in touch with a pest control professional to determine the best course of action. 

How Much Does Termite Treatment Cost?

The average termite tenting cost is around $3,000, with most treatments falling between $1,500 and $8,500. While it’s an investment, a full fumigation treatment is the most effective way to wipe out a major termite infestation before they can cause any more damage. For minor infestations, spot treatments like bait stations or insecticides may be an option, averaging between $75 and $1,730.