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Aug. 17, 2009 03:20 PM

Swarming is a spring activity for most - but not all - species of subterranean termites. Flight times for species vary based on favorable weather conditions, which means that not all termite reproductives swarm at the same time.

In the eastern United States, the major species typically swarm about a month apart, with Eastern subterranean termites (Reticulitermes falvipes) going first in April, followed by dark Southern subterranean termites (R. virginicus) in May.

There is one termite species, light Southern subterranean termites (R. hageni), which prefers quite different weather conditions, opting to swarm in the fall. Swarms of this species may extend from August (cities along the eastern seaboard) to November (in the Deep South). The winged adults in this species are slightly smaller and pale brown, and often swarm during the same time of day as the spring swarmers (late morning). This species' size and color often gets it confused with ants that swarm at the same time of year. 

 

 

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RE: fall swarming

This is probably the western subterranean termite, Reticulitermes hesperus. The name hesperus is Greek for western evening, which is appropriate because this species typically swarms in the evening in the fall. Swarms are usually not produced until colonies are at least four years old. If the swarm you have observed is in or close to the house, it would be best to have it inspected by a pest control professional.

William H. Robinson, Ph.D.
2009-08-31 11:54 AM

fall swarming

I have fall swarming termites here in the Pacific Northwest. They also swarm in the evening at dusk. Anyone know what type they might be and why they seem to be so different then the others? They are a bright orange color and definitely not flying ants. There bodies are straight and narrow with wings the same length. Thanks for any thoughts.

Lorraine
2009-08-31 09:14 AM