Spring is a season of renewal. But for homeowners, it also marks the return of increased damaging pest activity. In Kansas City, warmer temperatures signal the start of termite swarming season, when reproductive termites emerge in search of new places to establish colonies.
The sight of flying termites can be alarming. That’s why understanding what termite swarmers are (and what their presence means!) can help you take the right next steps. Here’s what you need to know about termite swarmers in Kansas City and how professional termite control can protect your home.
What are Termite Swarmers?
Termite swarmers, also known as “alates,” are the reproductive members of a termite colony. Their primary role is to leave an existing colony, find a mate, and establish a new one. Termite colonies are made up of three termite castes:
- Termite Workers, which feed on wood and cause structural damage
- Termite Soldiers, which protect the colony
- Termite Swarmers, which reproduce and expand termite populations
Termite swarmers are larger than worker termites, with a dark-brown or black body and two pairs of large wings. In the Kansas City area, subterranean termites are the only species of termite found. These termites live in soil and rely on moisture to survive, which is why they build mud tubes to travel between their underground nests and food sources.
What Does It Mean If I See Termite Swarmers?
If you see termite swarmers around your home, it means you have termites present and an infestation nearby that needs to be addressed.
Even if a full infestation is not yet established inside your home, the presence of swarmers indicates termite activity nearby that requires treatment. Here are some signs:
- Swarmers indoors: This often indicates an existing colony inside your walls or foundation
- Large numbers of swarmers: A clear sign of an active termite presence nearby
- Discarded wings: Piles of wings near windowsills, doors, or light fixtures indicate swarmers have landed and are attempting to start a colony
Swarmers are responsible for creating new colonies. Once established, these colonies produce worker termites that will begin feeding on your home.
Because termite damage often occurs out of sight, identifying swarmers early and acting quickly is critical to avoiding costly repairs. This is why scheduling regular termite inspections and treatment are essential for effective pest control.
How Do I Identify Termite Swarmers?
One of the most common concerns homeowners have is correctly identifying termite swarmers, as this is important in keeping your wood structures safe. They are often mistaken for flying ants, but there are key differences to look for:
- Termite swarmers have:
- Straight antennae
- A thick and uniform waist
- Two pairs of wings that are equal in size and shape
- Flying ants have:
- Bent, elbowed antennae
- A narrow and pinched waist
- Front wings that are larger than their back wings
Because termite swarmers are often confused with ants, a professional inspection is the best way to confirm what you’re seeing and determine next steps.
Why Professional Termite Prevention is Necessary
DIY prevention methods are not enough to fully protect your home, especially in a region like Kansas City, where termite activity is common. Kansas City ranks in the top 50 most termite-infested cities in the United States, making professional termite control essential to keeping your home safe!
Professional termite control services provide targeted treatments that create a barrier around your home, eliminating existing termite colonies and protecting your home from further damage.
Protect Your Home with Professional Termite Control
Termites are some of the most destructive pests homeowners face. Infestations often go unnoticed until significant damage has already occurred.
Over-the-counter treatments and DIY solutions are not effective for termite infestations because they do not eliminate the colony. Termites live underground and behind walls, so they can only be fully treated by professionals with specialized equipment.
Professional termite control offers a more comprehensive solution by:
- Identifying active infestations and potential risk areas
- Targeting termite colonies at the source
- Applying long-lasting treatments designed to eliminate colonies, prevent reinfestation, and protect your home
- Monitoring your property for ongoing protection
What to Do if I Have Termite Swarmers In My Home?
If you notice termite swarmers or signs of termite activity, the best next step is to schedule a professional inspection as soon as possible. Contact Advantage Termite and Pest Control to schedule an inspection.
Our trained technicians can determine whether the swarmers are coming from an existing colony within your home or from an external source. We will recommend the right treatment plan to eliminate the colony and protect your home.
Contact our team at the first sign of termite activity for professional service.
