Spring is the season of renewal and growth, but it can also bring some unwanted guests: termite swarmers. If you live in Georgia, Western North Carolina, or Upstate South Carolina, you may encounter these flying pests in your home or yard. At American Pest Control, we understand how concerning it can be to spot swarmers and the potential damage they can cause. In this blog, we will guide you through everything you need to know about swarmers, including what they are, why they appear, how to identify them, and what to do if you find them on your property.

What Are Swarmers?

Swarmers, also known as alates, are winged reproductive termites that emerge from established termite colonies. These termites leave their nests in large numbers, often after heavy rainfall or warm weather, to mate and start new colonies. The appearance of swarmers can be a sign of a mature termite colony nearby.

Types of Termites That Swarm

In Georgia, Western North Carolina, and Upstate South Carolina, the most common types of termites are subterranean termites and dry-wood termites. Both types can produce swarmers.

Subterranean Termites: These termites live underground and construct mud tubes to travel to and from food sources. Their swarmers are usually dark brown or black and have four equal-sized wings.
Dry-wood Termites: These termites live inside wood and do not require contact with soil. Their swarmers are typically light brown and have long wings that extend past their bodies.

Why Do Swarmers Appear?

Swarmers emerge for one primary reason: to reproduce and establish new colonies. When a termite colony reaches maturity, it produces swarmers to continue its lifecycle. Swarmers fly out from the colony, mate, and then shed their wings to begin building new nests. This process is essential for the survival and expansion of termite populations.

How to Identify Swarmers

Here are some key characteristics to help you identify termite swarmers:

Wings: Swarmers have two pairs of wings of equal length. They are usually shed soon after mating, so you may find piles of discarded wings near entry points.
Body: Swarmers have straight antennae and straight or slightly thickened waists.
Color: Subterranean termite swarmers are typically dark brown or black, while dry-wood termite swarmers are light brown.

What to Do If You Find Swarmers

If you find swarmers on your property, it is important to take action quickly to prevent a termite infestation. Follow these steps:

Identify the Type of Termite: Knowing whether you have subterranean or dry-wood termites can help determine the best course of action.
Contact American Pest Control: Our team of experts can conduct a thorough inspection of your property to assess the extent of the infestation and identify the type of termite.
Develop a Treatment Plan: Once we understand your situation, we will create a customized treatment plan to eliminate the infestation and protect your property.
Prevent Future Infestations: After treatment, we will provide you with tips and recommendations for preventing future termite problems.

Prevention and Protection

Preventing swarmers from establishing new colonies on your property is crucial. Here are some tips to help keep your home termite-free:

Remove Wood Debris: Termites are attracted to wood, so remove any wood debris from around your home, including firewood and tree stumps.
Address Moisture Issues: Subterranean termites thrive in damp environments, so fix any leaks and ensure proper drainage around your home.
Seal Entry Points: Termites can enter through small cracks and gaps. Seal any potential entry points around windows, doors, and utility pipes.
Schedule Regular Inspections: Regular termite inspections can help detect early signs of infestations and prevent extensive damage.

Swarmers can be a concerning sight, but understanding what they are and how to address them can help you take swift action to protect your property. American Pest Control is here to help you manage termite issues in Georgia, Western North Carolina, and Upstate South Carolina. Our experienced team provides thorough inspections, effective treatments, and ongoing support to keep your home safe from termite damage.

If you suspect a termite problem or have spotted swarmers on your property, don't hesitate to contact us. We'll work with you to create a plan that keeps your home safe and termite-free. Let American Pest Control be your trusted partner in protecting your property from the dangers of termites!