Swarming termites are a warning sign that you may have a bigger termite problem nearby. These flying insects show up when a termite colony gets too large and starts looking to grow. While they don’t bite or sting, their presence usually means there is a hidden colony eating through wood—possibly in your home.
In this article, you’ll learn what swarming termites are, how to spot them, and what to do next. You’ll also find simple ways to stop future infestations.
What Are Swarming Termites?
Swarming termites are adult termites that leave their nest to form new colonies. These termites have wings and fly in large groups. When a termite colony becomes mature, it produces these winged termites to spread and reproduce.
Swarming termites don’t cause damage directly. Their job is to find a mate and create a new nest. But if you see them, it means a large, active termite colony is close—and that colony may be feeding on wood around your home without you knowing.
How to Spot a Termite Swarm
Swarming termites are most active in warm, humid weather, especially after rain. They are drawn to light and often show up near windows, doors, or light fixtures.
Here are common signs of a termite swarm:
- Groups of flying termites, especially near lights
- Discarded wings on window sills, floors, or furniture
- Mud tubes along walls or foundations
- Soft or hollow-sounding wood
- Termite droppings, which look like tiny wood-colored grains
Many people confuse swarming termites with flying ants. Termites have straight antennae, equal-length wings, and thick waists. If you’re unsure, take a photo or collect a few and show them to a pest control expert.
When Do Swarms Usually Happen?
The timing depends on the type of termite, but here’s a general guide:
- Subterranean termites swarm in the spring, usually during the day
- Drywood termites swarm in late summer or early fall, often at night
Swarming termites use weather cues like heat and moisture to decide when to fly. Once in the air, they don’t travel far. If they land near your home and conditions are right, they may start a new colony close by.
What Causes Swarming Termites to Appear?
Swarming termites show up when a termite colony is fully developed. Once the colony reaches a certain size, it sends out these winged termites to expand.
Things that attract swarming termites include:
- Moist soil or wood
- Leaky plumbing
- Wood in contact with the ground
- Poor air circulation in crawl spaces
- Damp basements or old tree stumps
If your home has any of these problems, you may be more likely to see a swarm.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Swarming Termites
Swarming termites don’t live long after they leave the colony. Still, they are a strong sign that you have termites nearby. A termite colony can live underground or inside wood for years, slowly eating away at your home’s structure.
If left untreated, termite damage can weaken walls, floors, and support beams. Repairs can be expensive, and insurance usually won’t cover it. Acting fast can save you time, money, and stress.
What to Do If You See Swarming Termites
If you see swarming termites in or around your home, take these steps right away:
- Don’t panic.
Swarmers don’t cause direct damage, but they are a red flag. - Vacuum them up.
Use a vacuum to collect the flying termites and their wings. Don’t spray them with bug spray, as it won’t solve the real problem. - Collect samples.
Keep a few of the termites in a jar or bag. A pest control expert can use them to confirm the species and plan the right treatment. - Call a pest control professional.
They can check your home, locate the colony, and treat the infestation safely. - Don’t delay.
Even if you don’t see termites every day, the colony may still be active and growing.
How to Prevent Future Swarms
Once the current swarm is handled, focus on keeping termites away for good. Here’s how:
- Fix leaks in sinks, pipes, and the roof
- Clear out wood piles, mulch, and dead trees near your house
- Keep firewood off the ground and away from walls
- Clean your gutters regularly to stop moisture build-up
- Use treated wood during repairs or home upgrades
- Seal cracks in walls and foundations
- Schedule yearly inspections with a licensed pest control company
These simple steps make your home less attractive to swarming termites and help prevent future infestations.