Flying Termites, what's going on?
Flying termites (called alates) are the future queens and kings of a new termite colony.
The termite flight occurs when the temperature and humidity conditions are favourable outside and are like conditions inside the colony.
This usually occurs in Australia in the warmer summer months.
The termite alates (winged termites) have a thicker cuticle (skin) and are darker in colour than the workers and solders. This is to allow them to survive for a short time outside of the colony to find a suitable habitat and to set up a new colony.
A mature colony can release alates annually and the number released depends on the species, which could be from a few hundred to thousands.
Alates are attracted to florescent light, which when discovered by the homeowner, can cause panic and concern that their home is being attacked by termites.
The best course of action, don’t panic! Do not disturb the potential termite activity and call in an expert to complete a termite inspection of your property.
If live termite activity is found, a proposal will be put forward with treatment options and discussed with the homeowner.
If you have any concerns call us on 1300 476 253.
Regards,
Paul
Copyright Rocket Pest and Termite Pty Ltd 2016
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