Protek Pest ServicesWinged Insects Around Your Lights After Rain? Could Be Termites
A winged termite (alate) on damp ground.
Why they appear after rain
Termite colonies release winged reproductives, called alates or swarmers, to start new colonies. In many places this happens on warm, humid evenings after rain. The insects are drawn to lights, then shed their wings once they land. That's why wings on windowsills and near lights are such a common clue.
Termites or flying ants?
Winged termites and winged ants look alike at first glance. A few differences help:
- Waist: termites have a thick, straight body. Ants have a narrow, pinched waist.
- Antennae: termite antennae are straight. Ant antennae are bent, like an elbow.
- Wings: termites have two pairs of wings that are about equal in length. Ants' front wings are longer than their back wings.
What swarmers can mean
Swarmers outdoors suggest a colony nearby. Swarmers appearing indoors, or a pile of wings inside, can mean a colony is in or very close to the building. It doesn't prove damage, but it's a reason to get it checked.
What to do
- Collect a few insects or wings in a sealed container or sticky tape, and take photos.
- Note where and when you saw them.
- Vacuum up the wings if you wish, but don't treat that as solving the problem.
- Check nearby wood, door frames, window frames and walls for mud tubes, pellets or hollow-sounding timber.
- Book an inspection so the species and activity can be confirmed.
When you should call a pest control company
- You see winged insects indoors after rain.
- You find piles of wings near windows or lights.
- You also notice mud tubes, pellets or damaged wood.
- You're buying, renting or taking over a property.
What happens at an inspection
A technician checks inside and outside the property, looks for signs of activity, works out where pests are getting in and what is attracting them, and explains what was found. You then get a clear recommendation. Protek Pest Services offers a free, no-obligation inspection across St. Kitts & Nevis.
Frequently asked questions
How long do swarms last?
Often a short time, sometimes only a few hours. The wings left behind are usually the clue that remains.
Do swarmers eat wood?
Swarmers themselves don't cause the damage. The workers in the colony do, which is why the colony matters more than the swarmers.
Should I spray the swarmers?
It might kill the ones you see, but it won't deal with the colony. An inspection is the better next step.
Seen termite swarmers?
Book a free inspection. We'll check whether there's a colony in or near your property.