Signs of Termite Swarms in Jacksonville: What Homeowners Need to Know

Understanding termite swarms

A termite swarm is basically the beginning of a new colony. During this event, mature termite colonies release winged “swarmers” or reproductive termites to fly off and start their own colonies. These winged insects don’t cause the dreaded termite damage (worker termites do), but their presence signals a well-established termite colony is somewhere nearby—possibly even in your home.

Swarms are the first sign that your home may already have a termite problem or that termites are getting too close for comfort. The good news? Once you know what to look for, you can take action to protect your home from these destructive pests.

When subterranean termites typically swarm

In Jacksonville, subterranean termites typically swarm in the spring, usually between March and May. However, they may swarm at other times depending on environmental factors like moisture and temperature.

Termites usually swarm after rainfall when humidity levels are high—just like those familiar early spring showers we know. That's when you’re most likely to see a flurry of swarming insects as they take flight in search of a new place to settle.

Visible signs of a termite swarm

So, how can you tell if termites are swarming in your home? If you notice winged insects fluttering around, they’re likely termites. Unlike flying ants, termite swarmers have straight antennae and uniform wings. After the swarmers find their mates, they often shed their wings. When that happens, you will likely see piles of discarded wings near windows, doors, or light sources. You may also find dead swarmers that didn’t make it outside.

Where do indoor termite swarms come from?

Indoor termite swarms usually come from an existing and probably thriving termite infestation that’s already settled inside your home. When it’s time to mate, the swarmers leave their well-established colony inside wooden beams, drywall, walls, and other hidden areas. They slip out through cracks and gaps in walls and the foundation.

Prevention tips to keep termite swarmers out of your home

The best way to handle termite swarmers is to prevent termite colonies from getting inside in the first place. Here are some steps you can take:

• Seal gaps and cracks: Check for cracks in your foundation, around windows, doors, and pipes, and seal them to prevent termites from finding an entry point.
• Reduce moisture: Since termites thrive in humid conditions, keeping your home dry is key. Fix leaky pipes, use a dehumidifier in basements, and ensure proper drainage around the foundation.
• Remove wood debris: Piles of wood, mulch, or leaves close to your home are like a buffet for termites. Move these away from your foundation to reduce the risk of attracting termites.
• Trim trees and shrubs: If trees or shrubs are too close or touching your home, they can provide a pathway for termites to climb into your walls. Keep vegetation well-trimmed and away from the structure.

How Lindsey Pest Services stops termites

At Lindsey Pest Services, we’re experts in protecting Greater Jacksonville homes from termites and other pests. Our team uses the latest techniques to eliminate current termite problems and prevent future infestations. From professional termite inspections to effective treatments, we’ve got it covered.

Here’s how we handle termites:

Before we treat your termite problem, we’ll inspect the house and grounds to identify any signs of termites, locate potential entry points, and determine conducive conditions. If necessary, we’ll check the moisture levels in your home to uncover issues you may not realize. After that, our experts will treat for termites already in the house and install the Sentricon® system, an eco-friendly termite baiting solution, around the home's exterior perimeter. If foraging termites find your property and feed on the bait, they’ll only live long enough to share it with the rest of the colony - resulting in the complete eradication of the nest.

Don't wait—contact Lindsey for the best termite control in Jacksonville!

If you’ve seen termites swarm, don’t wait! The sooner you address the issue, the less damage your home will incur. At Lindsey Pest Services, we protect homes in Jacksonville, Atlantic Beach, St. Augustine, and throughout North Florida. When you partner with our local, woman-owned pest control company, you can count on us to keep the termites out!

Reach out today for an inspection and treatment plan, and let us eliminate these wood-destroying insects and take the stress out of termite season.