If you see termite wings flying around your home, it may indicate a growing colony that needs to be addressed.
Flying termites are swarmers produced when a subterranean termite colony reaches maturity. They’re essential to the propagation process of termite colonies, and they rely on environmental cues to detect other settlements nearby.
Use Orange Oil
Orange oil is a natural herbicide and insecticide that kills termites and other pests. It is also an effective treatment for bugs that look like flying termites, ants, dust mites, flies, wasps, spiders, and crickets.
It is a safe and non-toxic alternative to traditional termite chemicals such as fipronil, imidacloprid, or hexaflumuron. However, it can cause side effects such as skin irritation and dermatitis if used undiluted.
A termite exterminator will inspect the home for infestations and pinpoint the problem areas. They will then inject a concentrated oil solution into the wood.
The liquid penetrates the wood and kills all termites and their eggs. This method, called the drill and fill technique, is often used as a no-tent treatment for dry wood termites.
Boric Acid
Boric Acid is one of the most effective treatments for flying termites. It works by dehydrating the insects and destroying their nervous system, which means that they won’t be able to survive anymore.
It’s also very abrasive, which makes it tough on their bodies and weakens their exoskeletons. It’s easy to buy boric Acid at big box stores and sprinkle it around your home and yard.
Another way to kill termites is to use diatomaceous earth, which breaks through their exoskeletons and dehydrates them. You can sprinkle it around the house and garden, or you can spray it evenly on cracks and crevices that have termites living in them.
If you have a termite infestation, it’s essential to deal with it quickly and effectively. This way, you won’t have to worry about the pests eating away at your wooden structures and causing costly damage. Taking care of it when you first spot them can help keep them from spreading and save you hundreds or thousands of dollars in repairs.
Nematodes
Using beneficial nematodes to kill flying termites is a simple solution for homeowners. These microscopic worms burrow into termites and release bacteria that poison the pest within 48 hours.
These nematodes attack other soil-dwelling pests, such as billbug larvae and Japanese beetles. The nematodes are sold at big box stores and garden centers.
You mix the nematodes with water in a large bucket to use them. You can also use filtered water from your sink or a hose.
You’ll want to keep the soil extra moist for a few days after you apply your nematode spray to ensure that they get down into the ground and can start feeding and establishing themselves. This will help them survive for up to 18 months if it doesn’t freeze during winter.
These nematodes are a safe and natural way to treat termites and other soil-dwelling pests. They’re easy to buy at most grocery stores, home supply stores, and online.
Call the Experts
Flying termites can be a scary sight. Often called the “silent destroyer,” these pests are capable of causing more damage to your home than fires, floods, and storms combined.
If you notice flying termites inside your home, it’s best to call the experts. They can determine if there is an existing termite infestation or just some new termites scoping out the property.
They also can identify the most effective treatment for your unique termite situation. The best way to treat your flying termite problem is with a specialized termite control method that is safe for your family, pets, and home.
Swarm evidence includes discarded wings, frass (termite droppings), and peeling paint. Mud tunnels outside your home are also a common sign that termites have invaded your property.
