Flying Termites: Signs, Prevention & Treatment in Singapore

To effectively address a flying termite infestation, it’s important to know how to identify these pests. Flying termites, also known as swarmers or alates, are often mistaken for ants due to their similar appearance. However, there are key differences that can help you distinguish them.

Flying Termites:

• Size: They range in size from 1/4 to 3/8 inch long, depending on the species. They are at the reproductive stage, emerging from existing colonies to mate and form new nests.
• Colour: Flying termites typically have a beige or tan colour, similar to other termite castes.
• Wings: They possess four wings that are equal in length, white, and translucent with a veiny appearance. This wing structure is distinct from other flying insects.
• Antennae: Flying termites have two straight antennae with a slight curve. Unlike ants, which have antennae that bend at 90-degree angles, termite antennae remain relatively straight.

Flying Ants:

• Size and Colour: While they may be similar in size and colour to flying termites, they can vary more widely.
• Wings: Flying ants have two pairs of wings with the forewings being larger than the hind wings. This is different from the equal-length wings of flying termites.
• Antennae: Ant antennae are bent at right angles, unlike the straight antennae of flying termites.
• Waist: Ants have a narrow, pinched waist, which is absent in flying termites.
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By understanding these differences, you can more accurately identify flying termites and take appropriate measures to manage and prevent their infestation. 

Identifying flying termites involves recognising their distinctive features and behaviours:

• Winged Appearance: Flying termites have two pairs of wings that are roughly equal in size, unlike ants, which have wings of differing sizes.
• Swarming: Swarms of flying termites are usually observed around light sources or during warm, humid conditions.
• Discarded Wings: After mating, flying termites shed their wings. Finding these discarded wings near windowsills or other entry points can indicate a termite infestation.

HDB Homes: Flying termites in HDB homes are often found in wooden fixtures or furniture. Their presence can be alarming, especially when swarms appear inside the home.

Condos:  flying termites might target wooden structures such as flooring or built-in furniture. Their presence can be a sign of a more extensive infestation within the building.

Landed Properties: Flying termites are more likely to invade landed properties with extensive gardens and wooden structures. They may establish colonies in the soil or wooden components of the house.

Commercial Buildings: Commercial properties with wooden elements or storage areas are vulnerable to flying termite infestations. The presence of flying termites in such settings can disrupt business operations and lead to significant structural damage.

Flying termites are usually attracted to:

• Moisture: High humidity and water leaks create ideal conditions for termite colonies.
• Wood: Wooden structures and furniture can be a food source for termites, making them more likely to invade.
• Warmth: Termites thrive in warm, humid environments, which are common in tropical climates like Singapore.

Flying termites can cause extensive damage to:

• Wooden Structures: They can weaken wooden beams, floors, and furniture by feeding on the cellulose within.
• Property Value: Structural damage from termites can decrease the value of a property and incur significant repair costs.

To safeguard your home from flying termite damage, it is essential to perform regular inspections. This involves checking potential problem areas such as water leaks, foundations, wood rot, and wooden frames where winged termites might breed. Regular inspections help detect issues early and address them before they escalate. 

The most effective way to eliminate flying termites is to hire professional services like us, which employs highly trained and certified technicians capable of handling any termite issues you may face.

Effective termite treatments often involve the use of chemicals. It is crucial to rely on a licensed pest specialist who can ensure that pesticides are applied correctly in your home. Treatment methods may include drilling, pumping, or a combination of techniques tailored for extensive termite control. Properly applied pesticides target the queen in the colony’s nest, ensuring the complete eradication of the infestation and preventing future problems.

Prevent flying termites from entering your home by staying vigilant. If you notice termites flying around lights, it may indicate they are trying to establish a colony inside your home. During the swarming season, ensure that all windows are closed, and consider installing mesh screens over any gaps, windows, or doors to keep insects from entering.