Flying termites are one of the biggest nuisances any Singaporean homeowner can face. If you are wondering can termites fly, the answer is yes. Seeing a swarm of them around your space can be unsettling and is often a sign of an infestation that could wreak havoc on your property. While you may think it is easy to run to the store and get the most effective termite killer you can find, there is always a worry at the back of your mind about whether the ingredients are safe to have in your home, especially in areas like the kitchen or when you have children or pets. Here is everything you need to know about flying termites and steps to take to protect your home.
What are Flying Termites?
Flying termites, scientifically known as alates, are winged reproductives that swarm out from the nest to establish new colonies, which will house thousands or even millions of new termites. Sometimes, people would confuse a winged termite with a flying ant, but there are distinct differences. One way to spot the difference is that flying ants do not shed their wings while flying termites do. So, if you came across discarded wings, especially on a window sill, it could be a sign of termites.
Causes of Flying Termites in Singapore
Flying termites around your home or property should always be a cause for concern. These winged insects thrive in certain areas for swarming and nesting.
Warm and Humid Weather
Singapore’s weather creates the perfect breeding ground for flying termites. High humidity and rainy seasons encourage termite colonies to thrive.
Moisture Build-up
Areas with excess moisture like leaky pipes and poorly ventilated spaces, are what the termites look for. These areas help them house their colonies and serve as food sources, such as weakened wood.
Decaying Wood or Organic Matter
Flying termites are attracted to scents from decomposing materials like fallen tree branches, rotting timber, or old wooden furniture, which act as breeding grounds for them.
Bright Lights at Night
Flying termites are naturally drawn to bright lights, especially after rainfall at night. This is also why they gather in large numbers around well-lit areas like your home.
Nearby Termite Colonies
Unlike other pests, these winged insects do not travel great distances, meaning their colony is likely very close to your home.
Signs of a Flying Termite Infestation
Detecting a flying termite infestation early is important as it helps protect your home from extensive flying termite damage.
- Discarded Wings: Often found near entry points, window sills, or the home’s exterior, these are a telltale sign that winged termites are around your home.
- Mud Tubes: Protective tunnels constructed by subterranean termites to travel between their colonies and food sources. Mud tubes are found in dark, damp areas like basements, crawl spaces, and along foundation walls.
- Wood Damage: Often appears as hollowed-out or damaged wood, indicating that termites have been feeding on the cellulose within.
How to Get Rid of Flying Termites
As flying termites make up only a small percentage of their colony, the best way to get rid of them is to exterminate all the termites in the colony. These home remedies, however, can only temporarily reduce the infestation.
Pail of Water
Place a pail of water close to the swarm of flying termites. The light reflecting off the water attracts the termites, pulling them in and drowning them.
Spray Orange Oil
This is a safer option to get rid of flying termites. Spray orange oil in affected areas or areas where you suspect an infestation is occurring.
Turn off the Lights
Since flying termites are attracted to bright lights, turn off your lights at home and keep your doors and windows open to draw them to outdoor lights instead.
Call a Professional
If you have a serious termite problem in your home, it is best to call a professional pest control service. They have the experience and equipment needed to eliminate the infestation. Preventative methods are also used to effectively stop termites from getting into your home.
Preventing Future Flying Termite Infestations for Your Home
Homeowners in Singapore can implement these preventative measures by:
Regular Inspections
Schedule routine inspections to spot early or hidden signs of termite activity to intervene early and prevent extensive damage to your property.
Maintain Outdoor Areas
Keep the surrounding areas of your home clean by removing dead trees, leaves, wood debris, and standing puddles. A well-kept environment reduces the likelihood of termite infestations.
Treat Vulnerable Wood Surfaces
Use products with long-term protection for wood structures, such as applying orange oil to surfaces like window sills and doors to repel termites from entering your home.
It is good to take action before it is too late, and taking matters into your hands can have some setbacks. Using the wrong or ineffective treatment methods for flying termites can have damaging consequences, giving termites more time to damage your property, which leads to costly repairs. It can also pose health risks to you and your family. Letting professionals like Ridpest assess the infestation and provide you with the correct diagnosis and customised winged termite treatment plan for effective termite elimination based on your home’s unique needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Flying Termites dangerous to us?
No. flying termites are not dangerous to humans as they do not carry diseases, nor do they bite or sting. However, their presence is a critical concern for your property rather than for health.
