The pests we are most familiar with are usually those that cause damage in places we can see. We think of cockroaches rummaging through our cabinets or rats and other rodents chewing through our boxes and precious material items. We usually think of pests spreading harmful diseases to us and our pets, as well. However, one of the most important reasons why professional pest control in Tampa is essential is because of a group of pests we sometimes forget about — termites. These silent insects don't like to be seen by us, and they wreak their havoc in private, often meaning it is far too late to fix the problem by the time we realize it's happening. Read on to learn how to identify a termite swarm and how EcoTech Pest Control Services can help your home be termite-free today.
What Do Termite Swarmers Look Like?
Seeking professional pest control in Tampa for termites is essential because termite colonies are unbelievably massive. Like ants, termites rarely travel alone and are typically found in swarms. Without professional assistance, it is virtually impossible to exterminate a termite infestation on your own.
Below are some of the ways you can identify a termite swarm:
- Why do termites swarm?: Unfortunately, when you spot a termite swarm, this usually means your infestation is already severe -- and it might also be one of your first signs of termites. These pests only swarm once their colony has reached a certain size and the weather is nice enough for them to take flight.
- When you are more likely to see termite swarms: There are different types of termites in Tampa — drywood termites and subterranean termites. When you see them swarming depends on which kind it is. If they are drywood termites, they will come out in swarms in the late summer and early fall months. If you have subterranean termites, you will see them come out during the height of summer.
- Where to find termite swarms: One of the first signs of termites is a swarm coming out of a hole in a wooden board as they seek out a light source. At this stage in their life, these termites, called alates, can be found seeking out a source of light.
Given that there are different types of termites in Tampa and the sight of a termite swarm means your infestation is already advanced, you must seek professional help right away.
Termite Swarmers Could Be The First Warning Sign
Professional assistance is important because professional technicians are trained to understand the complex life cycle of these pests.
By understanding this, they can notice evidence of termites on your property long before the untrained eye can:
- Termite eggs: Like most insects, the termite starts as an egg. The queen lays the eggs, which are are small and white.
- Nymphs: After the termite eggs hatch, the larvae emerge; they are also called 'nymphs.' As they grow, they will molt, shedding their skin and developing into whatever form of adult their colony needs.
- Castes: Despite their destructive tendencies, termite swarms are rather fascinating. The colony consists of castes or different populations of termites such as workers, soldiers, and reproductive termites. Scientists aren't sure how these roles get determined, but we know that termites can continue to grow and change to fulfill whatever role is needed.
Role adjusting is another reason why professional assistance is required. Just because you kill the queen termite, if you do not manage to exterminate every individual termite in the colony, it is possible for other termites to simply grow into the role of reproductives, allowing them to restart their colony.
How Long Do Termite Swarms Last
Typically, a termite swarm will be visible for about 30 to 40 minutes. Termites are unique in the sense that they are incredibly dependent on the temperature being so specific, so if they do not find a good spot for a new colony, the swarm will eventually die off within a few hours. One of the reasons it is so difficult to notice evidence of termites is because the darkness and temperatures provided inside wooden beams are the perfect environments for them to thrive.
How Do You Get Rid Of Termite Swarmers?
Because termites only swarm once their colony has reached a large enough size, the presence of a swarm means you need to call a professional for termite control assistance immediately. Here at EcoTech Pest Control Services, we have nearly ten years of experience locating and destroying entire termite infestations. Our expert technicians have the skills and tools necessary to complete such a difficult task, and they will then work with you to implement prevention strategies, ensuring these pests do not return. If you are concerned about your home or property or have already seen a termite swarm, don't wait — call us today!