Termites are among the most destructive pests that can infest your home in Maryville, IL. These pests can silently cause untold amounts of damage to your property, leading to costly repairs if left untreated. Among the different types of termites, termite swarmers are a common sight during the spring season. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at everything you need to know about termite swarmers.
What Are Termite Swarmers?
Termite swarmers, sometimes called alates, are winged termites that are responsible for reproduction. These insects emerge from their nests in large numbers during the spring season and can often be seen flying in swarms around homes and other structures. Termite swarmers are typically attracted to light, so you may find them around your windows, light fixtures, or any other light source.
Why Do Termites Swarm?
Termite swarming is a part of the reproductive process for these insects. The swarming behavior is triggered by several factors, including temperature, humidity, and light. Swarmers emerge from their nests after a rain shower when the weather is warm and humid. The swarmers are attracted to light and can often be found flying around streetlamps or porch lights.
How To Identify
Identifying termite swarmers can be relatively easy if you know what to look for. These insects are usually around half an inch long and have two pairs of wings that are of equal length. The wings are translucent and have a distinct vein pattern. Termite swarmers also have a narrow waist, straight antennae, and a thick body with a white or light brown color.
Finding Swarmers Around Your Home
If you find termite swarmers in or around your home, it’s essential to take action quickly. Termite swarmers are a sign that there is an active termite colony nearby, and these pests can cause severe damage to your property if left untreated. The first thing you should do is contact a professional pest control company in Maryville, IL that can conduct a thorough termite inspection. A professional pest control technician can identify the species of termites present and recommend an appropriate treatment plan to eliminate them.
Preventing Termite Infestations
Preventing termite infestations is crucial for protecting your property from these destructive pests. Here are some tips to help you prevent termite infestations:
• Removing Sources of Moisture: Termites are attracted to moisture, so it’s important to fix any leaky pipes, faucets, or other sources of water around your home.
• Store Firewood Away From Your Home: Termites can easily infest firewood, so it’s essential to store it at least 20 feet away from your home.
• Remove Wood Debris: Termites can use wood debris as a source of food, so it’s important to remove any wood debris or dead trees from your yard.
• Seal Cracks and Crevices: Termites can enter your home through small cracks and crevices, so it’s important to seal these openings to prevent them from entering.
If you live in Maryville, IL, and spot termite swarmers around your home, give our team of professional exterminators at Brady Pest & Termite Management a call today!
