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Health & Fitness

Termite Swarm Season is Approaching!

Warmer temperatures are coming soon.  Are you prepared for the insect activity that the upcoming spring brings?  Each year as the weather warms up, termites start new colonies by sending out “reproductives.”  These are male and female winged termites that will be the “kings” and “queens” of future colonies.  The reproductives all leave the nest at the same time looking for a mate.  This emergence of large numbers at a time is called a “swarm.”  Swarming typically occurs March through May.  A combination of warm temperatures and rain in the spring trigger swarms.  These winged termites emerge from cracks in buildings or holes in the soil looking to mate and find new nest sites and food sources. When a homeowner sees this occurrence inside the home, it can be very frightening.

Should you be concerned if you see a swarm of termites?  Most swarms will occur outside.  However, if you see a swarm occurring inside, this means the insects’ nest is either in your home, underneath your home, or very close to the structure.  Most swarms only last about one day.  You may have around 30 minutes of high swarm activity, followed by a few smaller swarms.  The swarmers themselves are just a nuisance.  They do not eat wood, bite, or sting.  An indoor swarm, however, is an indicator of an already present infestation.  Colonies typically do not produce swarmers until the colony is around 3 to 4 years old, so a swarm means an established colony is close by.

Shortly after emerging, the swarmers, or alates, will lose their wings and look for soil to make a new home.  Many will die before finding a mate and a suitable nest site, especially indoors.  Vacuuming up as many termites as possible can help control some of the numbers.  You may find wings around windows and doors as swarmers are attracted to light.  Even in outdoor swarms, many termites will be eaten by birds, bats, and other insects.

Termites cause billions of dollars in damage every year.  Worker termites can eat wood year round.  Your home is your largest investment, and termites are silently feasting on a wood buffet.  If you suspect you have termites, and especially if you experience an indoor swarm, it is best to let a professional termite or pest control company handle the treatment.  Try to collect some of the insects or their wings to allow our pest control experts to identify your pest.  Many ants also produce swarms, and the winged ants and termites are often confused with each other.  In order to properly treat your problem, our team will need to properly identify your pest.

Prevention is always the best treatment.  Starting a year round pest control and termite prevention program will help make sure your home is protected.  Don’t wait for the swarm in your home.  Mid-Georgia Pest Control looks forward to serving you.  Call us today to learn about our pest control and termite prevention and treatment plans to serve your needs!

Please view our original blog at: http://www.midgapestcontrol.com/termite-swarm-season-approaching/

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