Every spring and summer, you may notice swarms of winged termites taking flight in the night sky. These pesky termites swarm by the thousands and may signify hidden colonies nearby.
Why do these winged termites appear in such large numbers, and what can you do to protect your properties? Keep reading for practical tips and insights on managing winged termites in your area.
Key Takeaways
- Winged termites start new colonies and are easy to spot with their black or dark brown bodies, long white wings, and straight antennas.
- Common signs of winged termites in New Orleans include groups of termites near lights, discarded wings, mud trails on buildings, and damaged wood.
- To keep termites away, you should check their homes regularly, keep the foundation area dry, and promptly fix any leaks or damage.
- Professional pest control services offer thorough termite services, such as ground and wood treatments and stations to check termite activity.
WHAT ARE WINGED TERMITES?
Winged termites are crucial in many species, including the Formosan subterranean termites and native subterranean termites.
As the reproductive members, they start new colonies in warmer months.
Physical Characteristics
Winged termites have distinct physical features that set them apart from other colony members. Here’s how you can spot these flying termites from workers or soldiers:
| Physical Characteristics | Details |
|---|---|
| Size | About 3/8 of an inch long |
| Color | Black or dark brown |
| Wings | Long, white, and stack neatly |
| Body | Unlike ants, they have less constricted waists |
| Antennae | Straight with a string of beads |
Diet and Habitat
Like other termites, winged termites feed primarily on cellulose. Common food sources include mulch in gardens, structural timber in the patio, and paper products inside the home.
These swarmers are well-adapted to Louisiana’s local conditions. They can be found in many regions of the New Orleans area, including the French Quarter and St. Charles.
WHAT ARE THE SIGNS OF SWARMERS?
Especially around Mother’s Day in New Orleans, you must watch out for certain signs of winged termites, such as:
- Swarming Termites: Flying around streetlights in spring and summer
- Fallen Wings: Piles of wings near windowsills or light fixtures
- Mud Tubes: Thin tubes on foundations or wooden structures
- Frass (Droppings): Looks like sawdust or dirt near wooden items
- Wood Damage: Splintering, honeycomb patterns, or small holes
HOW TO PREVENT WINGED TERMITE PROBLEMS
Winged termites can pose issues for New Orleans homeowners like you, especially during swarm season. With proper vigilance and measures, you can help manage and prevent these pests effectively.
Regular Home Inspections
To keep your home pest-free during termite season, schedule regular inspections by pest control professionals. This can identify early signs of termite infestation that you might miss.
With regular checks, they can address termite damages to save you on potentially costly future repairs. They can also recommend and connect you to credible sources like an entomologist with LSU AgCenter.
DIY Prevention Tips
For proactive protection, you can adopt various DIY pest control measures. These steps help reduce the risk of attracting winged termites and other invasive species to your property.
To prevent termites and issues associated with them, consider these strategies:
- Create a rock barrier (12-18 inches) between the soil and the foundation
- Fix leaks and standing water issues immediately
- Regularly clean gutters to prevent water buildup
- Avoid over-planting near your home’s foundation
- Use exhaust fans in damp areas
- Fix leaks and ensure proper drainage
- Repair any damage to the foundation, walls, or roof
- Inspect wooden furniture for termites before bringing it home
- Remove damp or rotting wood around the property
PROFESSIONAL PEST CONTROL SERVICES
When dealing with different winged termite species, DIY treatments may not completely solve the issue. With pest control companies, you can avail yourself of professional services, from assessments to regular check-ups.
At LaJaunie’s Pest Control, we provide a comprehensive approach to termite control. Here’s what to expect to help you make informed decisions:
| Services | Description |
|---|---|
| Termite Pretreatment | Treatment of areas where concrete will be poured to protect new structures. |
| Perimeter Treatment | Trenching around the home post-construction to create a protective barrier. |
| Inspection and Quoting | On-site inspection by our sales reps to assess termite presence and provide quotes. |
| Bait Stations | Installation and maintenance of bait stations to prevent and check termite activity. |
| Annual Inspection | Yearly check-ups to replace bait stations and assess potential termite activity. |
| Soil Treatment | Direct application of treatment to soil to target subterranean termite colonies. |
| Tree Stump Removal | Recommendations and actions to remove dead trees and stumps, reducing termite risks. |
| Wood Treatment | Various treatments, including liquid applications and bait stations, to eradicate termites in wood. |
WHEN TO CALL A PROFESSIONAL IN NEW ORLEANS
Knowing when to call pest control is critical when dealing with winged termites. If doors or windows suddenly become difficult to open or close, termites could be the cause.
Whether you’re in Baton Rouge, Slidell, or New Orleans, seeking expert help should be easy. For immediate intervention for a severe infestation, let Lajaunie’s termite control specialists tailor a solution that’s right for your home.
For more information about the areas we service, visit our location page.