Capable of causing billions of dollars’ worth of property damage, these wood-eating pests aren’t joking around this spring – and they’re rapidly preparing for a hostile takeover of your home. It is likely that flying termites, also called swarmers, will appear during the first part of the spring season. Swarmers may continue to appear throughout the hot summer months as well, it is largely dependent on the amount of rainfall during the season. 

Termite swarmers, often referred to as alataes, are sexually mature termites that prepare to leave the colony during the late spring or early summer season. Resembling flying ants, termite alataes are easily distinguishable from other species of pests, thanks to their straight antennae, thick waists, and long, symmetrical wings. 
 
You are more likely to spot termite swarmers on the first warm day after a rainfall. Flying together in large numbers, the goal of alates is to find new locations to colonize and search for compatible mates with which to reproduce. Lasting about 30 – 40 minutes per ‘cloud,’ alataes create large swarms of activity, settling down only to lose their wings and begin colonizing their chosen location. Although their official season is short-lived, the impact these pests can leave on your home and family may last for several years.

There are three crucial facts every Indianapolis resident should understand about the upcoming termite season:

• The Time Of Year: Mainly depends on the species. For the Indianapolis region, this generally means early March to mid-May. 
• Most Common Species Of Termite: The Eastern Subterranean Termite is the most spotted termite species in the Indianapolis region. 
• Where To Spot Swarmers: Spotting a single termite alate around the yard indicates that there is a colony nearby. However, finding groups of alates or sets of wings inside the home could indicate a much more serious infestation problem.

Termites are not the only type of insects waking from their winter’s nap. Pests like ants, ticks, and mosquitoes are becoming more and more active, starting to reproduce at alarming rates. Unless these pests are addressed quickly, their numbers will rapidly run you out of house and home.

What To Look For To Determine A Termite Infestation In Your Home

Uncovering the signs and symptoms of termite activity around your property is vital for keeping your loved ones safe all throughout the year. Keep an eye out for:

• What appears to be water damage (or blisters) on walls, floors, and wooden furniture 
• Sagging walls that sound hollow when tapped 
• Termite alates inside the home, or piles of discarded wings around doors and windows 
• Mud tubes, especially around foundations, basements, garages, and crawlspaces 
• Doors and windows that appear ‘jammed’ or stuck

Call now to receive a free inspection that will uncover the extent of your home’s termite damage today.

Action Pest Control Eliminates Your Pest Control Guesswork

If any of the above signs are present in your home, it will be time to immediately establish a professional termite extermination plan. The application of Termidor is one of the most effective termite treatments available on the market today, distributed through licensed pest control companies such as Action Pest Control.

No matter when or how termite season may affect you this spring, the best form of protection for your home and family will come from the professionals at Action Pest Control. Reach out to our Indianapolis, IN office today to learn more about your unique options, or to speak with a friendly service technician about solutions for your home or business. Terminate residential termite activity now with the helpful expertise of Action Pest Control immediately.