Termites stay out of sight the majority of the time, using their mud tubes to navigate between underground nests and their targets. Around once a year, some of these common pests take to the sky and fly around in groups. Termite swarms pose risks to any property, making them common reasons to contact an exterminator. If you spot a cluster of these bugs around your home, you may have many questions about them. To help you understand when to call for help, here’s a guide to termite swarms.

A Homeowner's Guide to Termite Swarms

What Is It?

Upon reaching maturity, termites leave their nest and create a temporary swarm. You may see them traveling in groups in your yard or around a structure. They’re drawn to light sources, so you may spot them near windows or lamps.

Exterminators see an influx of swarms in the springtime, when moisture levels are high and the temperature starts to warm up. Subterranean termites tend to make appearances during the day, from morning to early evening, because they thrive in the light. However, there are subspecies that only come out at night.

Why Does This Mean for Me?

While it can be weather-related, termite swarms usually occur as mating rituals. When their colony is full, the young bugs leave their nest to reproduce and establish new communities. However, termites can’t fly long distances, so if you see a swarm, there's likely an established colony nearby.

When this occurs, it puts your home at risk for infestations. Termites can chew their way through wooden elements of a property. From flooring to roofing, you may be left with costly damage if these bugs make their way into your home. 

What Can I Do About It?

Preventative termite treatment is the best defense against an infestation. The exterminator will use products to repel the pests and control their population, preventing them from entering your indoor space. While preventative treatment is long-lasting, you may need yearly service to keep the pests away during the summer and spring. With annual termite inspections, experts can catch problems before they develop into infestations.

To prevent a termite infestation if you spot a swarm, trust Allan's of Central Kentucky Termite & Pest Control Co. With over 40 years of experience, their skilled exterminators offer dependable and affordable pest control to residents and businesses across Marion County, KY. They provide termite treatments against subterranean termites and can help you control pests such as ants, rodents, and spiders. Visit them online to learn more about their services, or request your free estimate by calling (270) 692-2215.