August 26, 2025|5 min read

What Should You Do If You See Termites with Wings?

Q: What to do if you see termites with wings?

If you see termites with wings, act promptly. First confirm they are termites and not winged ants, then contact a professional pest control service to conduct a thorough inspection and recommend appropriate treatment options.

Flying termites are a clear sign of a mature colony nearby looking to expand.

Termites find locations to build new colonies by sending swarms of flying termites, also known as "alates," out to seek new wooden structures. These alates leave their original colony due to space and resource constraints.

This phenomenon, known as swarming, typically occurs during the daytime, frequently in spring, and often after a rainstorm. The sight of flying termites is a clear indication that there are one or more active termite colonies nearby.

Warning Sign

If you notice a swarm of flying termites, investigate further. A new queen will emerge from the swarm with a king to establish a new colony. Swarm sizes vary: drywood termites produce under 100 swarmers, while subterranean termites can produce thousands.

Quick ID Guide

6-9mm long

Tan to dark brown/black

Two pairs of equal-length wings

Straight antennae (slight curve)

What is the Difference Between Flying Termites and Normal Termites?

Workers

Dig tunnels, expand colony. Live 1-2 years.

Soldiers

Large heads, jaws. Protect colony. Live 1-2 years.

Alates (Flying)

Only reproductives. Do not eat wood. Die after first flight.

Queen

Lays eggs, maintains colony. Can survive decades.

How to Identify Winged Termites

Flying termites are 6-9mm long and range from tan to dark brown or black. They have two pairs of wings that are equal in length (about twice their body length), semitransparent with veins running the full length. Their antennae are typically straight with a slight curve. Unlike other insects, they do not have segmented bodies.

Seasonal timing helps identify species: Subterranean termites swarm in spring/summer. Drywood termites swarm from late summer through fall.

Winged Termites vs Winged Ants

Winged Termites

Straight antennae (slight curve)
Thick, wide waist (same width as body)
Wings equal in length
Wings extend far beyond body
Shed wings after mating

Winged Ants

Bent antennae with multiple bend points
Pinched waist
Wings unequal in length
Front wings longer than back wings
Do not shed wings after mating

Why it matters: Treatment methods for termites and ants differ significantly. Accurate identification saves time, money, and provides peace of mind.

Spotted Flying Termites?

This indicates a mature colony. Professional inspection recommended.

Call (866) 326-2847

Why Do Termites Fly?

Flying is tied to reproduction. Swarmers are the only colony members capable of mating. When a colony reaches capacity and resources become scarce, they must expand. Heavy rainfall and warm, humid temperatures often trigger swarming.

After finding a suitable location and mating, swarmers shed their wings and build a nest for the new queen.

When Do Flying Termites Appear?

3-4 Years

Colony maturity before swarming

Spring/Summer

Peak swarming season

Daytime

Most species swarm by day

30-40 Min

Typical swarm duration

After the swarm: If they fail to find suitable soil, they die from dehydration within hours. Successful swarmers can become a queen that lives over a decade.

Signs of a Termite Invasion

Mud tubes

On foundations, walls, ceilings, around plumbing

Mud-patched holes

Termites patch small holes in wood with mud

Structural issues

Sagging ceilings, broken door jambs, buckling floors

Frass (droppings)

Dry, six-sided tan pellets like sand or fine pepper

Hollow-sounding wood

When tapped

Headbanging sounds

Rattling sound in walls (termite communication)

Tree damage

Holes and damaged wood on nearby trees

Bubbling paint

Uneven or bubbling paint on surfaces

Shed wings

Near doors and windows from alates

What Should I Do if I Find Swarming Termites?

Confirm Identification

Make sure they are termites and not winged ants. Check for equal-length wings and straight antennae.

Contact Professionals

Schedule an inspection. If you have an existing contract, retreatment may be free or reduced cost.

Get Treatment

Options include soil treatment with liquid insecticide, baiting systems, or other remedial treatments.

Contact EcoGuard If You Are Dealing with Flying Termites

Our team of experienced professionals is equipped with the knowledge and tools necessary to effectively handle any termite situation. We understand the urgency and are committed to providing swift and efficient solutions. Early detection and intervention are key to preventing significant structural damage.

Call (866) 326-2847 Get Free Quote

Termites with Wings FAQs

What to do if you see termites with wings?

If you see termites with wings, it is important to act promptly. You should first confirm that they are indeed termites and not winged ants, then contact a professional pest control service to conduct a thorough inspection and recommend appropriate treatment options.

Should I worry about winged termites?

Yes, you should be concerned about winged termites. They are a sign of a mature termite colony, and their presence could indicate that there is significant termite activity nearby, potentially posing a risk to your property.

Why do I see flying termites in my house?

Seeing flying termites in your house could mean that a mature termite colony is present in or near your home. These termites are in their reproductive stage and are looking to establish new colonies, which could lead to significant structural damage if left unchecked.

Do flying termites mean you have termites?

The presence of flying termites often indicates a mature termite colony nearby. However, it does not necessarily mean you have an infestation in your home. It is best to get a professional inspection to determine the extent of the problem and to implement appropriate treatment measures.

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