Finding dozens of winged insects at a window, or a pile of wings on the sill, is how many Prattville homeowners first learn they may have termites. Swarmers don't eat wood themselves, but they're a sign of a mature colony nearby, possibly in your home. Here's how to tell what you're looking at, what it means and what to do next. For an overview of every pest, see our guide to pest control in Prattville, AL.
When termites swarm in Alabama
The Alabama Cooperative Extension System says native subterranean termites, the most common termites in the state and present in every county, swarm by day from about late February through May or June. Formosan subterranean termites, found mainly in Mobile and Baldwin counties, swarm at night. Swarms often follow warm days after rain.
Termite or flying ant?
| Feature | Termite swarmer | Flying ant |
|---|---|---|
| Antennae | Straight | Elbowed |
| Waist | Thick, no pinch | Narrow, pinched |
| Wings | Two pairs of equal length, shed easily | Front pair longer than back pair |
Collect a few in a sealed bag or jar to show the inspector. If they're ants, see ant control.
What swarmers inside the house mean
Swarmers outdoors near a stump or woodpile may just be a colony in the yard. Swarmers inside, especially around windows, doors, bathrooms or the garage, suggest a colony with access to your home. Look for the other signs Alabama Extension lists: mud tubes on the foundation, wood that sounds hollow when tapped and galleries packed with soil.
What to do next
Don't spray them and move on
Killing swarmers doesn't affect the colony. The inspection is what matters.
Save a sample
A few swarmers or wings in a bag help confirm the species.
Check your paperwork
If the home has a termite contract or bond, call that company first, since re-treatment may be covered.
Schedule an inspection
Ask for the inspection report and map, as Alabama Extension advises.
Fix moisture
Leaks, condensation and poor drainage invite termites. Pull mulch back at least 12 inches from the foundation.
See termite control for treatment options and termite contracts before you sign.
A swarm-season walk-around
- walk the foundation, piers and garage walls looking for pencil-width mud tubes
- check windowsills, light fixtures and spider webs near windows for shed wings
- look for stumps, form boards, firewood or wood fencing touching the house or soil
- check gutters, downspouts and air conditioning condensate lines, since Alabama Extension says leaks and condensation give termites the moisture they need
- pull mulch and plantings back at least 12 inches from the foundation
Buying or selling a home
Ask for the most recent termite inspection report and any existing contract or bond, and whether it transfers to the buyer. Alabama Extension warns that improper treatment can cause documentation problems during a sale or mortgage, so keep the paperwork with your closing documents.